Temporary Cable Bridge Restores Safe Passage Over San Joaquin River

In a much-anticipated development for Pacific Crest Trail and John Muir Trail hikers, a temporary cable bridge has been installed over the South Fork San Joaquin River in Kings Canyon. The installation, which provides a safer crossing over deep, rapidly-flowing waters, replaces the original steel structure that was destroyed during a heavy snowfall in winter 2023.

Kings Canyon National Park’s installation of the temporary bridge ends the need for hikers to endure a steep, lengthy detour since the original bridge’s removal. The new structure will also offer a safer alternative, allowing for more consistent trail access while a permanent replacement bridge remains under construction with completion expected later this year. 

A Muir Trail Ranch resupply staff was the first to cross the newly completed cable bridge, which serves as a temporary lifeline across the South Fork San Joaquin. Photo credit: Muir Trail Ranch

Snowmageddon in the SierraT

The original steel bridge across the South Fork of the San Joaquin at mile 854.5 became a casualty of relentless snow accumulation during the record-breaking winter of 2022-2023. Its loss has created significant challenges for hikers traveling between Muir Trail Ranch and Evolution Valley. Dangerously high waters and torrential rapids make fording the river impossible, necessitating extensive detours. 

Hikers have had to rely on a detour via Piute Pass and Bishop Pass to navigate around the impassable water section. This detour, although viable, added significant distance, elevation changes, and logistical challenges.

Furthermore, officials reported excessive tread on the fragile ecosystems surrounding this area, as hikers trampled off-trail to search for river crossings further down the banks.

The subsequent loss of the Middle Fork San Joaquin Bridge north of the South Fork crossing, also due to storm damage, has posed an additional obstacle for hikers this year.

An aerial shot of the destroyed South Fork bridge crossing, which collapsed under heavy snow in April 2023. Photo credit: PCTA

Utilizing the Temporary Cable Bridge

With the temporary bridge in place, PCT and JMT hikers can once again cross the flowing South Fork safely. However, it’s crucial to respect the right of way for construction workers still laboring on the permanent bridge nearby. Hikers are also urged to follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize environmental impact, especially given the increased traffic on detour routes. 

For additional announcements on PCT closures, you can stay updated with the PCTA’s Trail Closures website. 

Featured image courtesy of Muir Trail Ranch