Place closure
No recurring date-based closure of Tar Gap Trailhead itself is published, but the dated approach or parking limits below apply. Posted gates and emergency orders still control.
Trailhead
Tar Gap Trailhead
Mineral King, Sequoia National Park, California
About this place
Tar Gap Trailhead is a source-backed overnight access point in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks. Kampilo publishes only the official trail geometry and permit or camp authorization options represented in the mapped catalog.
The mapped line is a planning reference rather than a guarantee of current access. Confirm road, parking, trail, weather, fire, permit, and closure conditions with the land manager before departure.
Seasonal access
Closures & seasonal access
2026 Mineral King Road winter closure: October 28, 2026–Spring reopening; date not yet publishedSeasonal access
Atwell Mill via seasonal Mineral King Road: Use the signed Tar Gap/Atwell Mill access. Mineral King Road is narrow, partly unpaved, seasonally closed, and subject to construction delays; follow park marmot-protection and food-storage instructions. Cedar Grove, Mineral King, Big Meadows, and high-elevation park roads have different snow closures and operating seasons; winter access can end far below the summer trailhead.
Before driving
Check current park roads, construction, gates, and permit-station instructions for the exact entry. Seasonal opening dates move with snow and repair work.
Approach, parking, or service windows
- 2026 Mineral King Road winter closureOctober 28, 2026 → Spring reopening; date not yet publishedOfficial source
The park's 2026 construction schedule states that Mineral King Road closes for winter on October 28, 2026. The trailhead is not reachable by vehicle after the gate closes.
Map
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- Latitude
- 36.450750° N
- Longitude
- 118.614190° W