Baxter Pass Trail climbs over 6,000 vertical feet from the desert to the crest of the Sierra Nevada and down to the John Muir Trail/Pacific Creat Trail. Beginning at an elevation of 6,000 feet, it ascends to 12,300 foot Baxter Pass in 7.2 miles. At the top of the pass, the trail enters Kings Canyon National Park and 5 miles down to the JMT/PCT.
Due to its challenging nature, Baxter Pass Trail is visited relatively infrequently. It is steep, rugged and infrequently maintained. The trail pass through an old burn area. In this area, the trail is blocked and obscured by fallen trees or brush. Trail features numerous stream crossings and is only recommended for very experienced.