It takes a lot of work to get to Bearpaw but it is very much worth the journey. It's a long walk with wildflowers and ferns along the trail, and there is a 600' climb in the last mile. But when you finally walk into camp the Great Western Divide is there in your face and a hot shower awaits.

There is nothing bad I can say about the staff. They did their jobs with skill and with smiles. All were friendly and helpful and appeared to love what they were doing and where they were.

The food is very good and there is plenty of it. The beds, while basic, are just fine and the tent cabins go well with the environment of the Sierra. Down comforters were provided and with the weather we had last week were almost too warm (there are also a couple of spare blankets per person in each cabin).

The worst part: having to leave after our 3 nights were over.

The idea of hiking 11.5 miles into the mountains may seem daunting, however, when you arrive at Bear Paw, you will find yourself richly rewarded. A breath taking view of the Great Western Divide comes into view as you take those last few steps towards the cook house. A friendly host offers you a chair on the porch and a glass of lemonade. Watch the light play on the mountains then head off to your cabin. Comfortable mattresses and down comforters await you. Take a nap, then a hot shower followed by a delicious meal. The next day there are miles of trails to explore. The trip to Hamilton Lake is especially nice. A long hike to reach the place, but a wonderful place to relax once you are there.

My husband and I spent two nights at the Bearpaw Camp in Sequoia National Park in August of 2010. It was an unbelievable experience. The hike up to the camp was 11 miles and the views/scenery were awesome. The employees at the camp gave us a warm welcome when we arrived. The accomodations were very comfortable. Each couple has their own tent with two twin beds and down comforters. The food was amazing! I would suggest spending at least two nights so you can hike to Hamilton Lake on your second day at the camp. Another amazing hike! After dinner one night we all built a campfire and toasted marshmallows under the stars. We hope to get back there again some day!

On returning from a 10 day cross crountry backpacking trip with the Sierra Club, I dislocated my jaw while eating a large hunk of cheese and was in severe pain with a lemon size swelling in front of my ear. Never happened before and was frightening. This occured just before our approach down to Bearpaw and Thank God for Miles, their employee, for his expert aid which averted an emergency helicopter rescue. He was calm and professional and caring and a superb example of Bearpaw's staff. Dean Scofield