Watchtower Trail

Overview

From the Watchtower/Hump trail junction, continue ascending on this northern branch, following along the Watchtower Trail through the shady forest as it crosses a few seasonal creeks. Look for bright green corn lilies and abundant wildflowers along these creek beds in the early to mid summer. The trail then steepens and switchbacks a couple of times before reaching the Watchtower, a massive granite rock formation with sheer cliffs that overlooks the Tokopah Valley below. This is a rewarding spot to stop for a snack and enjoy the view. <br><br>Continue up the trail as it becomes increasingly rocky where it has been blasted out of the granite cliffs. The trail then descends to the other end of the Watchtower/Hump Trail junction. Continue along the Lakes Trail to reach Heather, Emerald, Aster, and Pear lakes.

Trail Stats

Photos

The Watchtower through the trees

The Watchtower through the trees

Marble Fork Kaweah River

Marble Fork Kaweah River

Glacier Ridge and Marble Fork Kaweah River

Glacier Ridge and Marble Fork Kaweah River

Watchtower Trail before joining with Hump Trail

Watchtower Trail before joining with Hump Trail

Overlook on Lake Trail.

Overlook on Lake Trail.

View from Watchtower Trail

View from Watchtower Trail

The Watchtower

The Watchtower

At the "Watchtower" looking straight down at "Tokopah Falls" below.

At the "Watchtower" looking straight down at "Tokopah Falls" below.

Lakes Trail: view down the canyon. The Watchtower is ahead but still not visible here.

Lakes Trail: view down the canyon. The Watchtower is ahead but still not visible here.

Marble Fork Kaweah River carving its way into the valley

Marble Fork Kaweah River carving its way into the valley

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