tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84417589131292447332024-03-19T05:02:10.427-07:00Hike. Eat. Camp. Repeat.Oshiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14465513929689702140noreply@blogger.comBlogger39125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441758913129244733.post-52063355029725498212016-02-11T16:16:00.001-08:002016-02-11T16:16:31.469-08:00Hollywood Sign - Mt. Lee on Canyon Drive<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRyWX87PBjV22FtHW5Vwof_ulBmuz0BgOvwzEP-p5njgGQBIQNZiwlQkxDskWhLjzJFNanDvsp876xfmJ-wedjwdAy0ZLjmbkVS2q8WeYtPi6ksAj60Iv2k3J5h6KJqGE8ajnkxmGEykI/s1600/IMG_3307.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="326" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRyWX87PBjV22FtHW5Vwof_ulBmuz0BgOvwzEP-p5njgGQBIQNZiwlQkxDskWhLjzJFNanDvsp876xfmJ-wedjwdAy0ZLjmbkVS2q8WeYtPi6ksAj60Iv2k3J5h6KJqGE8ajnkxmGEykI/s640/IMG_3307.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The iconic Hollywood Sign looming above Los Angeles was originally an advertising campaign for a housing development "Hollywoodland" back in the glitz and glamour of tinsel town in the 1920's. An entire historic timeline of the Sign can be found on the <a href="http://hollywoodsign.org/the-history-of-the-sign/" target="_blank">Hollywood Sign website</a>.<br />
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It is a pretty interesting read, from when it first got erected, to the famous 1930's suicide of a breakout film star, the erection of network antennas that networks eventually moved to Mt. Wilson, stories of vandalism and arson, to eventually a very well fenced and guarded Sign that it is now.<br />
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Today, when you make the trek up to Mt. Lee, where the sign stands, helicopters can be seen flying by in regular intervals ready to call any fence-jumpers out. And a wire fence was built to keep anyone from getting close to the historical landmark, which earned its designation in 1973 by the Los Angeles Cultural Heritage Board.<br />
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Trail</h4>
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<ul>
<li>7 miles (round trip)</li>
<li>1,000 feet gain</li>
<li>Out and back </li>
<li>No permit needed</li>
<li>Location: Griffith Park, Los Angeles, CA</li>
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Trail head</h4>
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At the southwest part of Griffith Park, the trail head is located at a small picnic area at the end of a residential road, heading north on Canyon Drive. The place has a small parking area just next to the metal gate that starts the trail and an over flow dirt parking lot just before. It gets busy on the weekends. Best to get there early to snag a spot. And be courteous in parking.</div>
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<br />The Hike</h4>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJirPeM8QFe8RhSAFf_Tj7vZPhF22NfQoBmfPYt8y0VV6-gISBRs5cAgVGJSgGdla9y2geSav8DD9DnEMQjCtFgKG7vkQlvOyfbSWCTmpFMWgn0UQFxeTyjgU1LJEW-LTyf9BuaXNy0-4/s1600/hollywoodsign1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJirPeM8QFe8RhSAFf_Tj7vZPhF22NfQoBmfPYt8y0VV6-gISBRs5cAgVGJSgGdla9y2geSav8DD9DnEMQjCtFgKG7vkQlvOyfbSWCTmpFMWgn0UQFxeTyjgU1LJEW-LTyf9BuaXNy0-4/s320/hollywoodsign1.jpg" width="240" /></a>Just a heads up, if you're expecting a backcountry, wilderness, solitude type of a hike, this is not it. This trail gets busy with all types folks, from runners to hikers to dog walkers. And you'll even get to share some portion of your hike with a horse pack doing a horse ride tour around Griffith Park. And the park itself, is located right smack dab in the middle of densely populated Los Angeles, Accessibility is very easy which makes the area very popular.<br />
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But the novelty of an <i>instragram-able</i>, <i>snapchat-worthy</i> photo op up at Mt. Lee with the Hollywood Sign, combined with a good workout for the day, is awesome enough to take on this hike and bring your active non-local friends and family visiting along.<br />
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The trail starts beyond the metal bar gate, and is wide enough to be fire road.</div>
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Past the gate, on your right, you'll pass by what seems to be remnants of a road? A dam? To be honest, I'm not so sure. But it has been "decorated" by some anonymous "artists".</div>
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The trail continues on along going up, walking along the ridge of a hill. You'll come up to your first junction, take the left and continue walking up. The trail is still wide and walks up to a view point with a bench overlooking Los Angeles.</div>
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Following the trail along, you'll reach a fork ahead. Much as you'd like to rather take the left of the fork since it seems to be heading down, don't. You'll end up at a horse pack station.<br />
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Take the right of the fork that is headed up and continue following along the dirt trail.</div>
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The dirt trail ends on an asphalt paved road, the Mt. Lee Dr., and you have an option to turn left or right.<br />
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Although the Hollywood Sign maybe in front and slightly to the left of you when you look up, trust the road going to the right and further climbing up will take you closer to it.<br />
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Pavement hiking isn't as much fun but the overlooking views of San Fernando Valley you'll see along makes up for it.<br />
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Along the way, you'll come up to a small monument marking a spur dirt trail to Cahuenga Peak. Head towards the left following the pavement to get to the Hollywood Sign and you'll soon start to see the back of the Sign.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNdKTtDSraQ1ddUDewxQIb0l6X8SBUV0LMoDaHE3ChzL5jFGzqfH330lLIek3LFHCgHnc_sQnyjgqGWnOQXKNjfe-7WQMa_IyySB3YzSD0SfCSTiFQcKtfIa8RNMtzWdJVOmxeI2GoIsI/s1600/hollywoodsign7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNdKTtDSraQ1ddUDewxQIb0l6X8SBUV0LMoDaHE3ChzL5jFGzqfH330lLIek3LFHCgHnc_sQnyjgqGWnOQXKNjfe-7WQMa_IyySB3YzSD0SfCSTiFQcKtfIa8RNMtzWdJVOmxeI2GoIsI/s640/hollywoodsign7.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Walk further up towards the fenced-in buildings and climb up the dirt path to your left to get a better view and photo of the sign with the overlooking view of Los Angeles atop Mt. Lee.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh5yaez11bpq2S3fm21bkecZzTkO7BuEY9KUSNx1NghyphenhyphenbHRB0A8CKPj2HCx02xSLrJbcKmF1Lhz_loKRGHSgefixnKM6cLhgcmoroY3huTGKL5Xit7q5GFmZaEUKjoi6OU11XlSNt0KeE/s1600/hollywoodsign9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh5yaez11bpq2S3fm21bkecZzTkO7BuEY9KUSNx1NghyphenhyphenbHRB0A8CKPj2HCx02xSLrJbcKmF1Lhz_loKRGHSgefixnKM6cLhgcmoroY3huTGKL5Xit7q5GFmZaEUKjoi6OU11XlSNt0KeE/s640/hollywoodsign9.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Head back the way you came in!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">P.S. If you're like me who gets sad and annoyed seeing trash around, bring along a plastic bag and a pair of gloves, if you can. With the spot's popularity, it sadly gets trash a lot. (Leave No Trace)</span></div>
Oshiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14465513929689702140noreply@blogger.com6Hollywood Hills, Los Angeles, CA, USA34.124985728393618 -118.3133125305175834.121699728393615 -118.31835503051758 34.128271728393621 -118.30827003051758tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441758913129244733.post-42489802239244677452015-11-03T16:25:00.000-08:002015-11-03T16:25:58.594-08:00Cottonwood Pass to Cottonwood Lakes Loop Hike - Inyo Nationa Forest & Sequoia National Park<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwGJcx_cKOhBr_DFCCjxO_wTI_MkV8NkRwxdd0Hp_BVsWWW9e8OmXJq5ZALnncrPwb4Uo0610tIOreX-g3yn7avCdkSXWZD207_rTMHOqBb0zvAEugYxyqCPJVHcYSmFrtnH3kpGCXx6M/s1600/CottonwoodHeader1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwGJcx_cKOhBr_DFCCjxO_wTI_MkV8NkRwxdd0Hp_BVsWWW9e8OmXJq5ZALnncrPwb4Uo0610tIOreX-g3yn7avCdkSXWZD207_rTMHOqBb0zvAEugYxyqCPJVHcYSmFrtnH3kpGCXx6M/s640/CottonwoodHeader1.jpg" title="Chicken Spring Lake" width="640" /></a></div>
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We intended to be on a leisurely, lake inspired 7 day loop trip into the wilderness from Cottonwood Pass to Cottonwood Lakes, stopping at every lake along the way to float lazily on the water, bask in the sun, nap on rocks, pretend to fish when we're really just going to be watching the fish, camp and catch the Perseid Meteor Shower that was going to peak in the middle of the week. Theme of the trip: Less miles to walk, more time for soaks.<br />
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But due to unforeseen events it ended up being a 4 day trip, nixing any other layover and short mileage days, to ultimately cut out the "leisurely" part of the trip and capping it as a 4 day backpacking trip. But.. we still managed to complete our originally intended loop!<br />
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Trail Stats</h3>
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<li>Miles: 20 miles total loop; plus 1 mile to make the loop in full circle</li>
<li>Elevation gain/loss:</li>
<li>Type: Loop, adding the last 0.5 mile to walk between 2 trail head parking lots</li>
<li>Location: Inyo National Forest - Lone Pine, CA</li>
<li>Permit: Easter Sierra Interagency Visitor Center Hwy 395, Lone Pine, CA 93545</li>
<li>Notes: Bring bear proof containers to protect your food; Soldier Lake was the only spot we found that had bear proof lockers.</li>
<li>More notes: Though I've put here that this hike is a loop, the exit point does not take you directly to where you've parked your vehicle if you parked at your entry point. (More on the parking info below.)</li>
<li>Weather: <a href="http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lon=-118.22843592495194&lat=36.49199942628225#.VigUWn6rQdU" target="_blank">General area of Cottonwood Lakes - NOAA</a></li>
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Permit</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU3E4VfxhXbzs9hokJB3ft890Jpor7mR_Rt9xsDNI-lH0hCQNXuv3V8wT_yAFmcNFrTzM8dof5yZzjqZgPIHFUuApzw4h9rEI92sSbRYJb_6ihhFKkHZDcfqJd_zOLVp7fldyuPTxSCjo/s1600/Cottonwood1a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU3E4VfxhXbzs9hokJB3ft890Jpor7mR_Rt9xsDNI-lH0hCQNXuv3V8wT_yAFmcNFrTzM8dof5yZzjqZgPIHFUuApzw4h9rEI92sSbRYJb_6ihhFKkHZDcfqJd_zOLVp7fldyuPTxSCjo/s400/Cottonwood1a.jpg" title="Easter Sierra Interagency Visitor Center" width="305" /></a>Walk-In Permits can be obtained for <i>free</i> at the Eastern Sierra Interagency Visitor Center.</div>
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However during the peak Summer seasons, and if your dates are not flexible, permits can be reserved in advance via <a href="http://www.recreation.gov/wildernessAreaDetails.do?page=detail&contractCode=NRSO&parkId=72203" target="_blank">Recreation.gov</a> with $5.00 per person and an additional one time fee of $6.00 is added on your total for reservation processing.</div>
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To start your trip clockwise, pick Cottonwood Pass (PCT GT60) as your entry trail. To start your trip counter clockwise, pick Cottonwood Lakes (JM39) as your entry trail. The latter is also a popular entry trail for those hiking to summit Mount Langley and fills up the daily quota faster than Cottowood Pass. Exit points will be the opposite of between the two options, depending on the direction of your loop.<br />
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Once you've paid your dues online, an email will be sent to confirm your reservation with instructions to pick up your permit. Actual copy of the permit will be picked up at the Eastern Sierra Interagency Visitor Center. Make sure you pick up your permit by 9:00 a.m. on the day of your entry.</div>
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Directions</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj38yP_kHIfC3fn6hnk88GR02Lp089KNXsR92G7H2gVN0Jx_UC04y_WXut-D-VDZ9EtQoOq3LuCeq_zJR41ZQEU6uBWvdhTDwRmgDBxvuTLIcMBn5xtVdVtFzlhz49Zsw4_4qYEtt05iac/s1600/CottonwoodGoogleRoadMap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj38yP_kHIfC3fn6hnk88GR02Lp089KNXsR92G7H2gVN0Jx_UC04y_WXut-D-VDZ9EtQoOq3LuCeq_zJR41ZQEU6uBWvdhTDwRmgDBxvuTLIcMBn5xtVdVtFzlhz49Zsw4_4qYEtt05iac/s320/CottonwoodGoogleRoadMap.jpg" title="extracted from Google Map." width="320" /></a></div>
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The Eastern Sierra Interagency Visitor Center is located a mile south of the town of Lone Pine, CA, on the corner of Highways 395 and SR136.</div>
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The visitor center is a 3 hour drive from Los Angeles, CA. And the trail heads are about 45 minutes more from there.</div>
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After picking up your permit, head back north on Hwy 395 and turn left on to Whitney Portal Road. Then about 3 miles up on the road, turn left on to Horseshoe Meadow Road.</div>
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Good to note in case you need some last minute stuff to do with your phone, the last reliable phone signal is just before you make this turn. After this, the drive up and the rest of your hike (except at New Army Pass), the cellphone signal is non-existent or at times sporadic.</div>
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As you get closer to your vehicle's destination, the road forks in two separate directions. Turning right will lead you to the parking area and walk-up camp sites by Cottonwood Lakes Trail Head. Staying on the left leads you to the parking area and walk-up camp sites by Cottonwood Pass Trail Head.</div>
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Parking</h3>
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There is ample and paved parking area on either trail heads, parking spots are not scarce here.<br />
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If you have only one vehicle, and parked it at your entry point, to close out the loop and get reunited with your vehicle, you'll walk an extra mile in between trail heads.<br />
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There is a pack trail that can connect both trail heads, passing by a horse pack station, but the walk from the the paved road that connects both trail head's parking lots seems a lot shorter, just a thought to note. And the road does not get busy.<br />
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The Hike, The Journey, and everything in between..</h3>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">(**Photos were taken on trip dates August 9-12, 2015)</span></i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1U5ms03_nl61zIMjy6f52SJDsRyNtMZYw6ZtDzOEKSlibzEemoEFdCviX03LqFEDZSB6SAt8GDGMacl-0DF4dpF4Ll4BwrydhZ-QmzLQNXn7LBitWr_5IrBphnqW2D4OvROwtQUQckwM/s1600/SaraiANDOshieCottonwood1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1U5ms03_nl61zIMjy6f52SJDsRyNtMZYw6ZtDzOEKSlibzEemoEFdCviX03LqFEDZSB6SAt8GDGMacl-0DF4dpF4Ll4BwrydhZ-QmzLQNXn7LBitWr_5IrBphnqW2D4OvROwtQUQckwM/s320/SaraiANDOshieCottonwood1.jpg" title="Taking a break at New Army Pass." width="320" /></a></div>
This backpacking trip was kind of different for me. I took on a different kind of challenge (non-trail related) and introduced a teen to multi-day backpacking.<br />
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I invited my partner, Kari's niece along on this trip. She was on her last week of her Summer break, we thought it'd be a good "last hurrah" before she enters 10th grade and maybe take a break from her daily life. Since Summer break started, she's been an awesome kid looking after her grandmother who was going through chemo. Not an easy task for a teen to take on, but she took it willingly and in stride. Her grandmother has been her "mother" since she was 4, when her real mother passed away. We had hoped to whisk her to a magical place to end her school break and nothing like mother nature to deliver just that.<br />
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<h4 style="text-align: center;">
Day Zero: From Lone Pine (3,727 ft) to acclimate at Horseshoe Meadow 9,960 feet</h4>
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With any hiking trip that starts in the Eastern Sierra, it is highly recommended to allot at least a day to acclimate. Altitude sickness can cut anyone's trip short. Since most of the trail heads in this area starts at around and above 10,000 feet elevation, us low-land folks need to give enough time for our bodies to adjust to high altitude before taking on more elevation.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEnslVviQt332O4VvjVJ7TnNYio50y7QHpEw5f54RKjOttGfpZXS1sFeSw6RvTHYnFQG7i5z88UG8faTWA32Q7hHcwfdsx27DTUp5xYBFtrBRl9x9vPsHQ21RqnoucAZUQZugeoNp7mEE/s1600/Cottonwood2a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEnslVviQt332O4VvjVJ7TnNYio50y7QHpEw5f54RKjOttGfpZXS1sFeSw6RvTHYnFQG7i5z88UG8faTWA32Q7hHcwfdsx27DTUp5xYBFtrBRl9x9vPsHQ21RqnoucAZUQZugeoNp7mEE/s320/Cottonwood2a.jpg" title="The drive up to Horseshoe Meadow." width="320" /></a>After grubbing lunch at the Pizza Factory in town, we arrived at a near empty campground at Cottonwood Pass TH. The drive is a beautiful uphill with a few twists and turns. You'll notice how quickly you're gaining elevation when you start seeing Owen's Valley in a bird's eye view.<br />
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We arrived at semi-bustling parking lot of Horseshoe Meadow, parked our vehicles and walked up to several unoccupied camp sites before deciding on one closest to a shared bear proof locker and a picnic table, there are several of these dotted around.<br />
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All sites are walk-up, so get ready to haul your belongings to your site if you're car camping and brought everything but the kitchen sink. Camping fees are paid by dropping an envelope in a box located by the interpretative display next to the restroom. The yellow envelopes are provided and can be found next to the box, just fill up the envelope with the necessary information, insert cash or check then drop in the slot.<br />
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You can find more information on this camp area via the Inyo National Forest website by <a href="http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/inyo/recreation/camping-cabins/recarea/?recid=20694&actid=29" target="_blank">clicking here</a>.<br />
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For the rest of the afternoon, some of us spent it taking naps, some going over their week's food provisions and some of us went exploring the first section of the trail that we're going to be taking the following day. Then after dinner and a campfire, we all settled in for the night.<br />
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Campfires are allowed at this campground but not wood gathering. If you weren't able to pick up firewood in town, there's a lone house close to the foothill that sells a box-full for $5.00 via an honesty box.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnJ4NhEah2Zdneh-K3X79mtx1WsXmhnXmCkc4JGNFsfduGc2q40FWrwf0-iVrpPHK4SOHy02mBDAUflFmSBiwlTjwAhBNjwMMHB-Fg8B09FoEx5nz980e7HPTP6QbqhHz3upPdPbowdOs/s1600/Cottonwood3a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnJ4NhEah2Zdneh-K3X79mtx1WsXmhnXmCkc4JGNFsfduGc2q40FWrwf0-iVrpPHK4SOHy02mBDAUflFmSBiwlTjwAhBNjwMMHB-Fg8B09FoEx5nz980e7HPTP6QbqhHz3upPdPbowdOs/s640/Cottonwood3a.jpg" title="Pre-hiking a bit of the trail for our hike the next day." width="640" /></a></div>
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<h4 style="text-align: center;">
Day 1: Cottonwood Pass TH (9,960 ft) to Chicken Spring Lake (11,242 ft) - 4.2 miles</h4>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6SmQcRsGNxPlMQU53yO1cI_gujv-XcXJga_DFQUHjIt6D_wMYqJadCGdpvFlS19Qhzc4IduXUkPqPISeq42QzV7bwCC8SgAA2wVThkke8_0OQWkp3hRm3wSFOdM0dpgfCf2F02CiyY0Q/s1600/Cottonwood4a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6SmQcRsGNxPlMQU53yO1cI_gujv-XcXJga_DFQUHjIt6D_wMYqJadCGdpvFlS19Qhzc4IduXUkPqPISeq42QzV7bwCC8SgAA2wVThkke8_0OQWkp3hRm3wSFOdM0dpgfCf2F02CiyY0Q/s200/Cottonwood4a.jpg" title="Good morning, world!" width="150" /></a>We awoke the following morning with the sierra's welcome gift of frost everywhere. It had been a chilly night. We dreaded sleeping at a higher elevation later on that day since today's hiking destination will be taking us above 11,000 feet. Even in the Summer season, nights can get cold in the mountains and it is always good to remember that it gets around 20 degrees cooler than at the valley floor.<br />
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After packing up the stuff we won't be taking with us back in the car and any scented items stuffed in the large bear-proof lockers provided at the trailhead (bags and cooler labeled with name and exit date), we entered the trail into the Golden Trout Wilderness in high spirits.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmzEqJ7C3wHtzdOh9p5Z7WP__vSpX7lNPTen6Qb4ohwShDbJbK1qRhbWelyeHJRDxsWt21ukOXPJ4n14iNRn8k5775Eig13roENM1wYOuMnPYvlx_s5SMUhaXbzw9JVR3x7_f0ui1i3RA/s1600/Cottonwood5a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmzEqJ7C3wHtzdOh9p5Z7WP__vSpX7lNPTen6Qb4ohwShDbJbK1qRhbWelyeHJRDxsWt21ukOXPJ4n14iNRn8k5775Eig13roENM1wYOuMnPYvlx_s5SMUhaXbzw9JVR3x7_f0ui1i3RA/s640/Cottonwood5a.jpg" title="Entering the Golden Trout Wilderness." width="640" /></a></div>
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The beginning of the trail was a stretch of flat terrain, the only challenge were the sandy sections and they weren't even the devouring kind of sand, hence, the "entering of the trail high-spirits". But after about a mile and a half, that feeling was slowly starting to fade and fill with wonder instead.<br />
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Aren't we trying to get to 11K here? Why hasn't the trail started really going up?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKSCMWkt_btsM7bhoBnc5s_5yc5bi9EAqgQFv8z9KsWj_Vpz5HiS3dn0nnQiMNXX4H5G-xhi2FD6KlFrAk2LaVbQX2TRZ0SpCsA2_142gjQbG1QnJGTNUqvv0uBUqvZva_hW23dr55prA/s1600/Cottonwood6a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKSCMWkt_btsM7bhoBnc5s_5yc5bi9EAqgQFv8z9KsWj_Vpz5HiS3dn0nnQiMNXX4H5G-xhi2FD6KlFrAk2LaVbQX2TRZ0SpCsA2_142gjQbG1QnJGTNUqvv0uBUqvZva_hW23dr55prA/s640/Cottonwood6a.jpg" title="Why aren't we hiking up yet?" width="640" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixAaXH13ZHFW2dsTTM69wHLzKSshVFwqWjpKNZNCXv2oc3JjxewsiE_6l6BS-zZr5_D8KkmITQ-_VoHp4HULcgIFXQ7n8RPeY50sjF_0q_oho_Mh7CD_6_LYaL1ktnoVsvO-qd-bsBQcM/s1600/Cottonwood7a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixAaXH13ZHFW2dsTTM69wHLzKSshVFwqWjpKNZNCXv2oc3JjxewsiE_6l6BS-zZr5_D8KkmITQ-_VoHp4HULcgIFXQ7n8RPeY50sjF_0q_oho_Mh7CD_6_LYaL1ktnoVsvO-qd-bsBQcM/s320/Cottonwood7a.jpg" title="Oh so we are going up after all." width="240" /></a><br />
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There was a gradual slope up at first. So gradual you can hardly notice it. And then... like a slap in the face, the switchbacks to climb was now right smack in front of us! The thousand foot gain will be climbed the rest of the miles remaining.. all the way to Cottonwood Pass. We trudged on.<br />
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At about mile 2, the trail started climbing up and above of Horseshoe Meadow. And like all ascending hike scenarios for us, there was now less chatter and more of sucking-the-life-of-our-platypus, panting, and eating. Yes, eating. We pack a lot of trail snacks to nom on these situations. Seems like a good enough thing to do when you stop and catch your breath.<br />
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The trail is exposed with an occasional shade that offers respite from the beating heat of the high noon Sun. It also doesn't seem to be an overly used trail. We only met a group of scouts on their way out by Horseshoe Meadow and an all women hiking group out for a day hike.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglKjcpN_vWREDo-fkLEbWseV1iMduSSe8onxPlLZIZUJdupKA8xLyikXxdJ_XM79g5Rgz6eGyBIj6lppgSSLKa7nkvl_a2pYPZ1Abp4xamUTymVK9uwE3ZT3ys9xZ4EKZc-73wiVAHolM/s1600/Cottonwood8a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglKjcpN_vWREDo-fkLEbWseV1iMduSSe8onxPlLZIZUJdupKA8xLyikXxdJ_XM79g5Rgz6eGyBIj6lppgSSLKa7nkvl_a2pYPZ1Abp4xamUTymVK9uwE3ZT3ys9xZ4EKZc-73wiVAHolM/s640/Cottonwood8a.jpg" title="Heading up to Cottonwood Pass." width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrV7A0GxXLzL4WPLePWMD-avVmxGvpRz49K7MLsnhDypw0mVXiaMXMyaH68eD983kZnttAccrkF94FcZZXsbLH1aLHHtR_8l_IS8CZJKRLtUU1UqkDCyW1wtoXZlvnwMPExJ3HE7iP-jM/s1600/Cottonwood9a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrV7A0GxXLzL4WPLePWMD-avVmxGvpRz49K7MLsnhDypw0mVXiaMXMyaH68eD983kZnttAccrkF94FcZZXsbLH1aLHHtR_8l_IS8CZJKRLtUU1UqkDCyW1wtoXZlvnwMPExJ3HE7iP-jM/s640/Cottonwood9a.jpg" title="Looking back, as we headed towards Cottonwood Pass." width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIeUoQKMTglL7JKrMjxC_sPnUfWbJ0q8n_NnPcMhwwtgMevNi7skCoPnlSq1uhpJDRFYLHd-ZBw93AmW_MIQe4rEufrPUhJAEWUeBUvyesFIGu75_E6G9kHINTpFdghcodCA_s1dLBWCU/s1600/Cottonwood10a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIeUoQKMTglL7JKrMjxC_sPnUfWbJ0q8n_NnPcMhwwtgMevNi7skCoPnlSq1uhpJDRFYLHd-ZBw93AmW_MIQe4rEufrPUhJAEWUeBUvyesFIGu75_E6G9kHINTpFdghcodCA_s1dLBWCU/s320/Cottonwood10a.jpg" title="Our trail now met with the PCT." width="320" /></a></div>
After trekking the switchback for about a mile or so, we arrived at 11, 160 feet Cottonwood Pass.<br />
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We are also at the trail junction where the Cottonwood Pass Trail meets the Pacific Crest Trail. To head south on the PCT is to take the trail heading to the left. And to head north was to our right, which was the direction of Chicken Spring Lake.<br />
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We snapped a few photos and carried on, the sun was at her peak and my feet were looking forward for a soak in a cold water!<br />
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We jumped on the trail heading north. We're just about a mile away till we can sit back and kick our feet and call it a day.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT5uwAYkzO0Gij3kAutzZyG5DG-QWXqGkiT4UWlxMy6gU4NW359uVPpLpPdo7FnoJ7OpqMZMNWboGN3V19CHGzJYmQXYu-BL0cJXPl4Hy6jo56kF4Ap_-vGFnz_SPnvN5zl9L5TXlh8ac/s1600/Cottonwood11a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT5uwAYkzO0Gij3kAutzZyG5DG-QWXqGkiT4UWlxMy6gU4NW359uVPpLpPdo7FnoJ7OpqMZMNWboGN3V19CHGzJYmQXYu-BL0cJXPl4Hy6jo56kF4Ap_-vGFnz_SPnvN5zl9L5TXlh8ac/s640/Cottonwood11a.jpg" title="Onto PCT North" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUqb-KG6Os5wFSh4vH5Qi6vaFltTK5Cb9-hkciDlakY0hDw5yoDOf8SKmzg8nlir9ArNIVtKaFFvxSGJd_-lyle0y8c5vzG0o72Qr7IJKuUsGRKT_oJWb_ADX1SzljUulqMvmX5ekKz6U/s1600/Cottonwood11a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUqb-KG6Os5wFSh4vH5Qi6vaFltTK5Cb9-hkciDlakY0hDw5yoDOf8SKmzg8nlir9ArNIVtKaFFvxSGJd_-lyle0y8c5vzG0o72Qr7IJKuUsGRKT_oJWb_ADX1SzljUulqMvmX5ekKz6U/s400/Cottonwood11a.jpg" title="Spur trail to get to Chicken Spring Lake from the main trail." width="400" /></a>To get to Chicken Spring Lake, there is a spur trail that veers to the right from the main trail. Watch<br />
for a sign tacked on a tree trunk warning everyone that there are no campfires allowed.<br />
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We arrived at the lake obvious that the on going California drought did not spare this place. The water level receded so low that it was currently split into two, one a lake size and the other the size of a pond. But like all alpine lakes, it was still a pretty sight to see.<br />
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We scouted for space big enough to have 3 tents but cozy enough that we're not far apart and found one just before the north shore.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj28m9eTZtw8QzBgWe8-dF8bIOD6C9Efmnhb9UeUcQQKVgTPmOyhoc9sVZkBrP1NPH8yKWy-YBfZUUE3MYfTH1I9CBKHvupakwX1kA5tTXg21OiASZYBsPdtxgGh4yCqKjwBKJvPEzphqI/s1600/Cottonwood12a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj28m9eTZtw8QzBgWe8-dF8bIOD6C9Efmnhb9UeUcQQKVgTPmOyhoc9sVZkBrP1NPH8yKWy-YBfZUUE3MYfTH1I9CBKHvupakwX1kA5tTXg21OiASZYBsPdtxgGh4yCqKjwBKJvPEzphqI/s640/Cottonwood12a.jpg" title="Scouting for camp spot." width="640" /></a></div>
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We spent the rest of the day with camp chores, eating and just basking in our surrounding, with the teen on the hunt for the "perfect tanning rock" turned "napping rock".</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGsiD0EbTrVHwXXjPahQhYb7znz20ItuNGgdsuY2zUpX731zn_Huq6WJ9NSVf_wPUko9WuEONW9c5uak9mBZg2jxp2iENmQj7jZhKVzgTgL6X7ZM5ZCbXipCH3UaZLZdNhvjgvZe7C7QY/s1600/Cottonwood13a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGsiD0EbTrVHwXXjPahQhYb7znz20ItuNGgdsuY2zUpX731zn_Huq6WJ9NSVf_wPUko9WuEONW9c5uak9mBZg2jxp2iENmQj7jZhKVzgTgL6X7ZM5ZCbXipCH3UaZLZdNhvjgvZe7C7QY/s400/Cottonwood13a.jpg" title="After a hike.. a nap sounds about right." width="400" /></a></div>
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<h4 style="text-align: center;">
Day 2: Chicken Spring Lake Layover - 0 miles</h4>
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We had another Sierra first timer in the group. However, he did not have the same resiliency of a younger buck, like our teen in the group. At a request to stay another day at Chicken Spring Lake to recuperate and regroup, nobody argued. This was agreed from the get-go to be a chill trip, after all. A 20 mile total trip stretched out in 7 days? Impromptu tweaks of plans were not only expected but embraced.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4bdV4FEpkoaZ4RYU-M8dFCRtSIv0_kO6Co4ac21Uh4k4Sz9unl0dw_EqsC1TZc5ztWuFdooWJ09gKBy-y3WnoJ6gro04_IR1y9l3C63W0Q-cZKwYuis6iZSosPEZJyLbKa89HiVHZ5VY/s1600/Cottonwood14a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4bdV4FEpkoaZ4RYU-M8dFCRtSIv0_kO6Co4ac21Uh4k4Sz9unl0dw_EqsC1TZc5ztWuFdooWJ09gKBy-y3WnoJ6gro04_IR1y9l3C63W0Q-cZKwYuis6iZSosPEZJyLbKa89HiVHZ5VY/s640/Cottonwood14a.jpg" title="Morning looking towards the lake." width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif5ibuiSpFeYV-DqbxotAROLh0TaSYEyOa4bDtVIezLRfWOZ9g6p532YktDi9NLFe48f-HP3agcyaKa-CxJnCF1BnJqIK8joTTFSHvSZ23f6i_ADSQQ7UeROdhL6k2qhjiBPhXnA_HmS8/s1600/Cottonwood15a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif5ibuiSpFeYV-DqbxotAROLh0TaSYEyOa4bDtVIezLRfWOZ9g6p532YktDi9NLFe48f-HP3agcyaKa-CxJnCF1BnJqIK8joTTFSHvSZ23f6i_ADSQQ7UeROdhL6k2qhjiBPhXnA_HmS8/s320/Cottonwood15a.jpg" title="Walking around the lake." width="320" /></a>After a long socializing feast over breakfast, everyone picked out something to do, from naps, to reading a book, to exploring the area, to circumnavigating the now two-part lakes, to taking a dip in the water, floating tube and all!<br />
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There are lots of places to pitch a tent scattered about without having to crowd another camper. The day before we only had one other group camped, pitched by the south shore. But on our second day, more backpackers started trickling in; an organized big group complete with matching bright pink tees, couples, pairs, small groups and soloists. It got busy, but it was good to meet other hikers and listen to stories.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ_MX6RWoO4X5Z-yiEiRZJL8LrPZ0azV89YzL1FkW2Dv9EWQO9cbBsw4029ogKd1Wcfu919m9SV9deDLdSfA9dv8mpAVlihPTrZb9Nsew_OvZI8MMklwIAjXotythR9_L1tT5v2xs-tmc/s1600/Cottonwood16a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ_MX6RWoO4X5Z-yiEiRZJL8LrPZ0azV89YzL1FkW2Dv9EWQO9cbBsw4029ogKd1Wcfu919m9SV9deDLdSfA9dv8mpAVlihPTrZb9Nsew_OvZI8MMklwIAjXotythR9_L1tT5v2xs-tmc/s640/Cottonwood16a.jpg" title="On the search for the perfect beach to watch the scenery and take a quick dip." width="640" /></a></div>
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At dinner, it got resolved that a couple in our group are not going to be moving on. It's was sad that they won't be able to finish the trip but best to err on the side of caution, rather than have someone be miserable or become more fatigued or get injured. At the end of the day, it was a good call.<br />
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Day 3: Chicken Spring Lake (11,242 ft) to Soldier Lakes (10,720 ft) - 4.6 miles</h4>
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Lazily, one by one, we crawled out of our respective dwellings. For three of us, we don't have much miles to cover and we're looking forward to an elevation loss today. While two from our group will be heading back to town and salvage the rest of their off days with an impromptu road trip to Utah via Las Vegas.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxj6Mh8HgO9NrNy03cq1BGbMQdT1IzsD1JwgD2zQ6jB8v9bRjYBHjFrqXl4QlfDY-gbySekIQR1mElZIO7lOEt4KeJ3jSfJWa9siB8LjZwjfFRSDlzJbVC80seEZr0rZdp9b52QxSAIZc/s1600/Cottonwood18a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxj6Mh8HgO9NrNy03cq1BGbMQdT1IzsD1JwgD2zQ6jB8v9bRjYBHjFrqXl4QlfDY-gbySekIQR1mElZIO7lOEt4KeJ3jSfJWa9siB8LjZwjfFRSDlzJbVC80seEZr0rZdp9b52QxSAIZc/s320/Cottonwood18a.jpg" title="Leaving Chicken Spring lake" width="320" /></a></div>
We broke camp after breakfast and said our goodbyes at the Chicken Spring Lake spur trail.<br />
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Czarina and Andrew hopped on the south bound trail to get back to the trail head. Joe, Sarai (our teen!) and I jumped back on the PCT heading north. And as expected, the trail headed up before we started going down to lower elevation.<br />
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I didn't realize it but I was eager to get back to walking again. The original intent was this was to be a very passive backpacking trip.. and it was making my feet itchy to keep on moving though!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz58QXncYtxvwC6vFKkYvC5eyqkv4AZ8_3Ta-zsP8kQHwPkKxuYOE1v9Ij2M5SZtsAjizRiu3SeQTGJTYDarOkJ2U4Ap3fkxKQPuNZS9TRbizQyeisWxcEwBEAEpGgV0Wy6kPthbX9QQM/s1600/Cottonwood19a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz58QXncYtxvwC6vFKkYvC5eyqkv4AZ8_3Ta-zsP8kQHwPkKxuYOE1v9Ij2M5SZtsAjizRiu3SeQTGJTYDarOkJ2U4Ap3fkxKQPuNZS9TRbizQyeisWxcEwBEAEpGgV0Wy6kPthbX9QQM/s640/Cottonwood19a.jpg" title="Back on the trail again. Yay!" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoSdvLTeSKiz9qfUOK54UZPFNt_nOTvQ4yS1tDOEfB82io5yxbwiSgilXX4911YCusLSvhV3dUG1EITT6NTADimVeqJOxndkWl7jkHMI1BuH4P2vOOaJGuOuZsq-myPIIGKe45E3TvrhI/s1600/Cottonwood20a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoSdvLTeSKiz9qfUOK54UZPFNt_nOTvQ4yS1tDOEfB82io5yxbwiSgilXX4911YCusLSvhV3dUG1EITT6NTADimVeqJOxndkWl7jkHMI1BuH4P2vOOaJGuOuZsq-myPIIGKe45E3TvrhI/s640/Cottonwood20a.jpg" title="Chicken Spring Lake below on our right." width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtTm52_nj0pjGvHIaxw6v5jbxYeUpcdjoA9chd96Rw16vcQMZpBvaxb1pRTh0CKLhP4oaKwDtOdLLvPyDQuL92kf_15Wt12RuzcrBANBVfLinVnBxsZ8-NgrzXOwmvSpEhlxxZ0VOpVXI/s1600/Cottonwood21a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtTm52_nj0pjGvHIaxw6v5jbxYeUpcdjoA9chd96Rw16vcQMZpBvaxb1pRTh0CKLhP4oaKwDtOdLLvPyDQuL92kf_15Wt12RuzcrBANBVfLinVnBxsZ8-NgrzXOwmvSpEhlxxZ0VOpVXI/s320/Cottonwood21a.jpg" title="She left me down below and seems happy about it! LOL!" width="320" /></a>As our trail started climbing out of the basin, it wasn't long before we were below looking at our previous campsite We're not high above Chicken Spring Lake and we just barely left camp!<br />
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The trail still trekked on up.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmEaT7tHpeKINSfUFZJDdX11WQTLabSB1r9Z0seftjqdz8qv-VKTnd98q4Q4i0M37W7w8IErZ1BbxNC6_OVGbdehXyF87xAibg2SUZtIR0P2lQRAZVvNkyfZ3tAx_e3WyStUeejUiKdrM/s1600/Cottonwood22a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmEaT7tHpeKINSfUFZJDdX11WQTLabSB1r9Z0seftjqdz8qv-VKTnd98q4Q4i0M37W7w8IErZ1BbxNC6_OVGbdehXyF87xAibg2SUZtIR0P2lQRAZVvNkyfZ3tAx_e3WyStUeejUiKdrM/s640/Cottonwood22a.jpg" title="Big Whitney Meadow down below." width="640" /></a><br />
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The next thing we knew, wind was whipping our faces and we have a bird's eye view of Big Whitney Meadow to our left.<br />
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We hiked along a relatively flat trail and still within view of Big Whitney Meadow. Then we started to approach an area with even less trees, making the trail more exposed and practically shadeless. Cirque Peak started to loom at us as we continued along hiking next to a mounds of scree.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf1jrSH5DM3_tC5qQ74kV3ovaYUV14DXdKMasxAasfAV__WsUmHatG26mwpBgl4IYih-uXkeD9gW8IdtvDEBq6lY0kmlqrRyJ66ykn8qTCzB04p3VOqelsnpI5zC3RRYC8Ujy_i5juB0k/s1600/Cottonwood23a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="294" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf1jrSH5DM3_tC5qQ74kV3ovaYUV14DXdKMasxAasfAV__WsUmHatG26mwpBgl4IYih-uXkeD9gW8IdtvDEBq6lY0kmlqrRyJ66ykn8qTCzB04p3VOqelsnpI5zC3RRYC8Ujy_i5juB0k/s640/Cottonwood23a.jpg" title="Looking towards Cirque Peak." width="640" /></a></div>
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The trail curves like a horseshoe along side a small meadow and dips a little before climbing up again towards the boundary of Inyo National Forest and crossing on towards Sequoia National Park.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRMwk1eXWacLWkGFKko6LQWvzfZY-8G0F4cttrwWxLeHHK47759Xw1ghMzzzUNSyoFI8DRkI8R4imBiOUh2FXCN314HwH8wZ9OTJzRf7eiM3NVxYVizoZLLEhF2f4hqHgrWXiqg0U-qWo/s1600/Cottonwood24a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRMwk1eXWacLWkGFKko6LQWvzfZY-8G0F4cttrwWxLeHHK47759Xw1ghMzzzUNSyoFI8DRkI8R4imBiOUh2FXCN314HwH8wZ9OTJzRf7eiM3NVxYVizoZLLEhF2f4hqHgrWXiqg0U-qWo/s640/Cottonwood24a.jpg" title="A spec in the sky! The Moon. " width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbSKGbXhlfJjdMy3wNEWk6mmz1a4Y9CfH5q3wUHfN3RRC6GhCw6-eWyxaE5SSXyicgMCc3yHmcGBeO-1vWOaBaBxC9L5eD4s6CVIQ5O1xfIKpSAqltuDitFO9ESzo-XoSOB38PA-IT9cI/s1600/Cottonwood25a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbSKGbXhlfJjdMy3wNEWk6mmz1a4Y9CfH5q3wUHfN3RRC6GhCw6-eWyxaE5SSXyicgMCc3yHmcGBeO-1vWOaBaBxC9L5eD4s6CVIQ5O1xfIKpSAqltuDitFO9ESzo-XoSOB38PA-IT9cI/s200/Cottonwood25a.jpg" title="My goofy niece photobombing the sign." width="150" /></a><br />
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At 11,320 feet above sea level, we took a photo break by the sign at the boundary.<br />
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We took advantage of the shade that was given to us at that moment. The sun was not too kind to be out in the open with her, but I'll take it over a lightning storm on that part of the trail!<br />
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We didn't stay long, we were not that far away from our intended lunch break spot.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLE_czGCaX3keADjuqw8NOR-Zhr-xUeoowkHO3G_A_ngisJgHmTQ2oZ1kgl0bIoHmcL56HHLkdYz8V-UZEecC8qqxyMCvNOunyrb-ZM06hAGhrYzmbptU1n-6PNCb1y7pyET_ceiKGsoM/s1600/Cottonwood26a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLE_czGCaX3keADjuqw8NOR-Zhr-xUeoowkHO3G_A_ngisJgHmTQ2oZ1kgl0bIoHmcL56HHLkdYz8V-UZEecC8qqxyMCvNOunyrb-ZM06hAGhrYzmbptU1n-6PNCb1y7pyET_ceiKGsoM/s320/Cottonwood26a.jpg" title="4-way trail junction" width="240" /></a>One mile after crossing the park boundaries, we arrived at a 4-way trail junction: from where we came from was Cottonwood Pass Trail, up ahead of us was to Rock Creek Crossing (if you're headed to Whitney, this is your way!), to the left of us was to Siberian Pass and the trail to our right was to connect with Rock Creek Trail, which is where we were headed to get to Soldier Lakes.<br />
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We picked out a shaded spot and had our lunch and watched a big cloud of smoke from a distance, north of us. A passing horse packer informed us that it might seem to be a wildfire in the Mineral King area. I checked out online when we got home later on the week and only found the Rough Fire that was active in that area at that time. I read it had been burning from a lightning strike on July 31st, just over a week ago that day.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq5Pp4bk_Xc3KniqZb2yBncn2k5fwjjt4GPYk47sFp0wFzUUvzcUEaKXlp-B0ePui4cWrqMIHsEDUqEHNxHu3HLZr65gPiE9LxJUmtf5SIo_occ_Gq6DT8JYvboBptramLYhauKX2nPOM/s1600/Cottonwood27a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq5Pp4bk_Xc3KniqZb2yBncn2k5fwjjt4GPYk47sFp0wFzUUvzcUEaKXlp-B0ePui4cWrqMIHsEDUqEHNxHu3HLZr65gPiE9LxJUmtf5SIo_occ_Gq6DT8JYvboBptramLYhauKX2nPOM/s400/Cottonwood27a.jpg" title="Spot the turquoise blob that's napping!" width="400" /></a></div>
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We had a leisurely nap after lunch, longer than we had intended, summer breeze never fails to lull you to deep naps! We got back on the trail and after a mile reached the trail junction to Soldier Lake/ Rock Creek Trail and to New Army Pass (NAP). We left the turn to NAP, we're not tackling that yet.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLExSadhB_9syOg9qif5fF6PVxWvyYz2YWRJJIdK2KbKYyBbQysRHJH4m_rEqAABoPsjXLAUY7dFJGxcWcUhoSnNXt1PT-GtjLth4iJAiAE2n8cGd-c6GYrpLgxOLVWQRiLEe0Ul4wono/s1600/Cottonwood28a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLExSadhB_9syOg9qif5fF6PVxWvyYz2YWRJJIdK2KbKYyBbQysRHJH4m_rEqAABoPsjXLAUY7dFJGxcWcUhoSnNXt1PT-GtjLth4iJAiAE2n8cGd-c6GYrpLgxOLVWQRiLEe0Ul4wono/s320/Cottonwood28a.jpg" title="New Army Pass trail junction" width="320" /></a></div>
At this point, we already know our fate on the trail has been shortened, one of us (defintiely not Joe! Haha) was surprised by "Aunt Flo" one week too early. <i>Sigh. </i>Oh womanhood! There were provisions packed for a "just in case" it comes early, but it wasn't expected to be <i>that</i> much early. Supplies were very limited. We needed to get back to town the sooner, the better.<br />
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As we approached the spur trail to Soldier Lake, it became more apparent that the rest of the day will be spent with less movement as possible due to Aunt Flo, so we nixed the day trip to the Miter Basin on top of shortening the trip. At least, we have another goal to look forward to on a revisit!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho1hcvwcycNOHcnasFx42TgMpnsKZYlbrT7h6rwSKud6kKg-G_kuVY7EhiYWgzp_ilC1Doa2v6LBg_-p9HNB69-aIXWhyphenhyphengUui6AaY4soKf2TQ7tcJ3at8Ak2eIhe1uGE6JX0yqZMPd0i4/s1600/Cottonwood29a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho1hcvwcycNOHcnasFx42TgMpnsKZYlbrT7h6rwSKud6kKg-G_kuVY7EhiYWgzp_ilC1Doa2v6LBg_-p9HNB69-aIXWhyphenhyphengUui6AaY4soKf2TQ7tcJ3at8Ak2eIhe1uGE6JX0yqZMPd0i4/s640/Cottonwood29a.jpg" title="To Soldier Lake we go!" width="640" /></a></div>
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We found the sign leading to Soldier Lake and followed the spur trail, passed by one small bear proof locker but it was too far from the lake to make camp and if this was our last night, having a view was going to be a must.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1CQbI1KnMBa331Ba1hK7p9Ek5gvbwARb7bFvehSmBAZGtfslpIP9DUjyQQH4VDGK_o-2gj_WKyq6qHmiAwdC9ysTFv3aPaoCRCyVNo_PNVQqsC5DsSScDyLu-RoI9mTTrJ-Wa0-bbm-g/s1600/Cottonwood30a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1CQbI1KnMBa331Ba1hK7p9Ek5gvbwARb7bFvehSmBAZGtfslpIP9DUjyQQH4VDGK_o-2gj_WKyq6qHmiAwdC9ysTFv3aPaoCRCyVNo_PNVQqsC5DsSScDyLu-RoI9mTTrJ-Wa0-bbm-g/s640/Cottonwood30a.jpg" title="Some clearing to camp behind those trees on the left." width="640" /></a></div>
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We continued on along the trail as it climbs down to the lake's basin and settled in at a clearing above the lake. We realized with excitement that we had the place all to ourselves!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg07YMn-XHsoF9JoxpsOrQvoRHgaLPOd6X8KO65436rhbL7PBmP8pJDqYm0rnB_nZtNNnjwL3Y5cCYQFQLATD7zI_g2VlGXYX3VQsr3qVeHAEikImuBlrAouSriQE6gOCrnI6LLDRxAgw/s1600/Cottonwood31a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg07YMn-XHsoF9JoxpsOrQvoRHgaLPOd6X8KO65436rhbL7PBmP8pJDqYm0rnB_nZtNNnjwL3Y5cCYQFQLATD7zI_g2VlGXYX3VQsr3qVeHAEikImuBlrAouSriQE6gOCrnI6LLDRxAgw/s400/Cottonwood31a.jpg" title="Camp above the lake while the teen grazed on our food supplies." width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3PWhvbTsRZcDjWnm64IaEQthknEWWzLMr4ufIfJg95j5oUr0n47vKrupI04ofv66Q6lD8c6qngUscW7Nw8OTMONOkkLHKI_Zsij2NbLaXQkOEga4Uv7XRMBp6O3E9CZwr8yVxWszwnvw/s1600/Cottonwood32a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3PWhvbTsRZcDjWnm64IaEQthknEWWzLMr4ufIfJg95j5oUr0n47vKrupI04ofv66Q6lD8c6qngUscW7Nw8OTMONOkkLHKI_Zsij2NbLaXQkOEga4Uv7XRMBp6O3E9CZwr8yVxWszwnvw/s640/Cottonwood32a.jpg" title="Soldier Lake" width="640" /></a></div>
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By nightfall, with still no other campers by the lake but us, it was a magical spot to look up and watch the Perseid Meteor Shower light up the sky. We counted a few fireball sized ones that night!<br />
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<h4 style="text-align: center;">
Day 4: Soldier Lake (10,720 ft) up New Army Pass (12,310 ft) to Horseshoe Meadow (9,960ft) via Cottonwood Lakes Trail - 12 miles</h4>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxNWiLKAlciQ97YudyO3VO_T2zGA9zUMBevey7jiDFfivFit5z9vHOBhsl-6KpjBGMhbsDWmBXJrHgDnVtC_ER8yaW9HJiU25bSvn9xrEn1mnTjsTq5AOhojkXu3Z4vLcnSNfoJQJvCCw/s1600/Cottonwood33a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxNWiLKAlciQ97YudyO3VO_T2zGA9zUMBevey7jiDFfivFit5z9vHOBhsl-6KpjBGMhbsDWmBXJrHgDnVtC_ER8yaW9HJiU25bSvn9xrEn1mnTjsTq5AOhojkXu3Z4vLcnSNfoJQJvCCw/s640/Cottonwood33a.jpg" title="Breakfast over Soldier Lake" width="640" /></a></div>
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Waking up with having the entire area all to yourself, with no other people but your group, was bliss! We didn't want to leave at all.. well at least not yet. But we'll be tackling the highest point of the trip, as well as taking on the biggest drop of elevation on the trip and longest mileage. Lots of first for our teen just for one day.<br />
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We got up early and had a big breakfast, savoring the quiet morning.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu90M3Z0OkGit3buE735rnO9e2Y0lLGn7d4dvgMQdE0ATnxqLKjnUSx3B3Hcc8lyxfu-zh_3jBpIfSiLegUiUM1207pnpKOOpMI4plEl4k-06onZOfpAF4C58NF9tdTfKN1bp5Gcmpng8/s1600/Cottonwood34a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu90M3Z0OkGit3buE735rnO9e2Y0lLGn7d4dvgMQdE0ATnxqLKjnUSx3B3Hcc8lyxfu-zh_3jBpIfSiLegUiUM1207pnpKOOpMI4plEl4k-06onZOfpAF4C58NF9tdTfKN1bp5Gcmpng8/s400/Cottonwood34a.jpg" title="Leaving Soldier Lake" width="400" /></a>Fueled up, we broke camp and headed out, subconsciously unwilling.<br />
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We met a our first group of Whitney-bound backpackers headed to Soldier Lake by the bear proof locker. And it wasn't long after we left the the trail junction of Rock Creek/New Army Pass that we met a couple more separate groups heading out to the same lake.Guess Soldier Lake was the day's prime destination!<br />
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For the rest of the morning, all the way atop New Army Pass, we were the only ones headed toward that direction.<br />
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We quickly left the shaded relief of the trees and started hiking on pebbly, scree filled trail with the morning Sun already glaring down at us. This part made me seriously wish I brought along an umbrella.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjai3syFNgD-ewpdPUawgV5ib4BpxrXq7BncbqoHTuzd9JE37-Owz1SH8B2f0GGGGj38ImSvuKkaIlVzStVnHWGCR2Zto0uvcfSTpwIuutEvy4aoMUiCfJFmJwB-ZyV9LOVG9p3GtikZnY/s1600/Cottonwood35a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjai3syFNgD-ewpdPUawgV5ib4BpxrXq7BncbqoHTuzd9JE37-Owz1SH8B2f0GGGGj38ImSvuKkaIlVzStVnHWGCR2Zto0uvcfSTpwIuutEvy4aoMUiCfJFmJwB-ZyV9LOVG9p3GtikZnY/s640/Cottonwood35a.jpg" title="Looking back from where we came, Soldier Lake is there!" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0JsZr-qT3S03tb8On8VIZNbVWmZ_Ob6aENBVfZhcwAPPdmbgYOAIM0Ukq6I7lAeUrWCLRD5ht8zMSK9-o_W_r_zF_nc45fIHY-HeQshyphenhyphenzsJjJk-hvdWEgsMiux9Lz_7hbd3mliTe30rc/s1600/Cottonwood36a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0JsZr-qT3S03tb8On8VIZNbVWmZ_Ob6aENBVfZhcwAPPdmbgYOAIM0Ukq6I7lAeUrWCLRD5ht8zMSK9-o_W_r_zF_nc45fIHY-HeQshyphenhyphenzsJjJk-hvdWEgsMiux9Lz_7hbd3mliTe30rc/s640/Cottonwood36a.jpg" title="Looking up to where we're headed, New Army Pass." width="640" /></a></div>
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The trail seemed to never ever end! Every time I'd look up to a curve on a mountain, I'd swear that we were there, only to get there and find more scree and more trail. Haha to me! The marmots that make this arid environment their home, make for good entertainment to watch though.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhprCuDby1QQlfY80-JrGvmDuY5J-42m-ZVRqa_2GGRdwwclCYi9Mz6-wdcIDR6Fk0FRIZ7n0ONncUOB_0mZXjCYC-ZNlOvlm4-ZomD5_nAAU7vVAc0R2W2NMW2un7uZ4YJe0qCdu4soy4/s1600/Cottonwood37a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhprCuDby1QQlfY80-JrGvmDuY5J-42m-ZVRqa_2GGRdwwclCYi9Mz6-wdcIDR6Fk0FRIZ7n0ONncUOB_0mZXjCYC-ZNlOvlm4-ZomD5_nAAU7vVAc0R2W2NMW2un7uZ4YJe0qCdu4soy4/s640/Cottonwood37a.jpg" title="To New Army Pass" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLGEDjvguuClqay9VAnSqMDRgALqwWNoDrcV6RbRym4uuiBPswXWjt5Wjkftx1hkg4EkNjEK-FI4h-KiXOocr5DS5eDc1zWw8v6sRqJjebJAc6Gs-0lZeQSHQkPndrCq-t0_oarFt78-0/s1600/Cottonwood38a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLGEDjvguuClqay9VAnSqMDRgALqwWNoDrcV6RbRym4uuiBPswXWjt5Wjkftx1hkg4EkNjEK-FI4h-KiXOocr5DS5eDc1zWw8v6sRqJjebJAc6Gs-0lZeQSHQkPndrCq-t0_oarFt78-0/s640/Cottonwood38a.jpg" title="To New Army Pass" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBZZG9VuufJ1X_wL71UAEVq8rli2AfMFRA2wYRTziSkiDB0vvdMPs_Bl-lFCLE8umtGeq13sUy7cM28coLv-ql0ptbFNmVXnhKyNitkocbcnT-lkkIQyGY8azlrrt7nsB2ZQcoXY_oKmI/s1600/Cottonwood39a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBZZG9VuufJ1X_wL71UAEVq8rli2AfMFRA2wYRTziSkiDB0vvdMPs_Bl-lFCLE8umtGeq13sUy7cM28coLv-ql0ptbFNmVXnhKyNitkocbcnT-lkkIQyGY8azlrrt7nsB2ZQcoXY_oKmI/s640/Cottonwood39a.jpg" title="Where are you New Army Pass?" width="640" /></a></div>
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We finally reached the top of the pass just in time for lunch. There were a few folks there already resting up. They were also headed in the direction from where we came from, all the way down to Soldier Lake. The pass also marks that we will now be leaving Sequoia National Park and will enter the John Muir Wilderness area.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjghP3Uptn_OUmSh8vNN1nxOcGx8aZni4MbK1GbWidlswIqmawnyQhxozpQQIvexbSbol8Petv6bFzQeadwJJIymqIep-ekVX9D3iCow2CamdvqiQWQ2viAfQF5lAVA3xcR4Kl7kOZdye4/s1600/Cottonwood40a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjghP3Uptn_OUmSh8vNN1nxOcGx8aZni4MbK1GbWidlswIqmawnyQhxozpQQIvexbSbol8Petv6bFzQeadwJJIymqIep-ekVX9D3iCow2CamdvqiQWQ2viAfQF5lAVA3xcR4Kl7kOZdye4/s320/Cottonwood40a.jpg" title="Looking over yonder!" width="320" /></a></div>
We caught a wavering cellphone signal atop 12,310 feet New Army Pass and took advantage to call Kari and update her of our current situation with the arrival of "Aunt Flo"and our shortened trip. The teen took the opportunity to get in touch with her Abuela for a moment.<br />
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At lunch, we fortified the idea to spend one more night in Cottonwood Lake 5 while we considered doing rationing of supplies we have for "Aunt Flo". We'll catch the trail at the junction we found on the map between Cottonwood Lakes 1 and 2.<br />
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The trek up the pass was pretty gradual, though there were really steep grades on some spots but after coming down on the other side of the mountain, we were glad we climbed up that pass from the west side than the east. The steep, numerous switchbacks on the other slope seemed to never end and the face of the mountain seem so ominous towering almost vertically above the trail.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK7wOEN5fdwMkjCDrsIITEdncHLVyUUEznEu0ivYXTd1HIWIQkptkySKcNvloReaDMI2RcCoPQaRrVYLiiNBHpX9RcX0Zuomq2X7KfcLQW8_1hwsoCiGZbXYaACZe8lAQglTLRueX34-8/s1600/Cottonwood41a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK7wOEN5fdwMkjCDrsIITEdncHLVyUUEznEu0ivYXTd1HIWIQkptkySKcNvloReaDMI2RcCoPQaRrVYLiiNBHpX9RcX0Zuomq2X7KfcLQW8_1hwsoCiGZbXYaACZe8lAQglTLRueX34-8/s640/Cottonwood41a.jpg" title="Starting down New Army Pass" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxhuOzNccvkFLND7JnOL6hhMKgsYro5bOnhVr1bPg1nTQHULsPTsX_6QSZAaa6jw9b5eapokFSHzYu7yFR6tNNiUHkzQbwudpdjmVsNLo-bF3vrjY0adOF0gmG1vvWxdGGvKzmNnrWC7g/s1600/Cottonwood42a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxhuOzNccvkFLND7JnOL6hhMKgsYro5bOnhVr1bPg1nTQHULsPTsX_6QSZAaa6jw9b5eapokFSHzYu7yFR6tNNiUHkzQbwudpdjmVsNLo-bF3vrjY0adOF0gmG1vvWxdGGvKzmNnrWC7g/s640/Cottonwood42a.jpg" title="High Lake, Long Lake and the South Fork Lakes" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8OoEij3vMyomUlQH4-KwFyQmC0pTOqfHCg-kV0Zfo6CrqAPRKdk91o-V2bgCLh6lKdqu3INblyf0gA7lL6BDQ4xmWF3nFw4JKAoKjb8hyphenhyphenQ_jJDVewSdh0y80kaISJ7qWWjPT5WCp9u0Y/s1600/Cottonwood43a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8OoEij3vMyomUlQH4-KwFyQmC0pTOqfHCg-kV0Zfo6CrqAPRKdk91o-V2bgCLh6lKdqu3INblyf0gA7lL6BDQ4xmWF3nFw4JKAoKjb8hyphenhyphenQ_jJDVewSdh0y80kaISJ7qWWjPT5WCp9u0Y/s640/Cottonwood43a.jpg" title="Coming down New Army Pass" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3UMGs6BywEq94lxNHFR36Gl4lf1-eXvj0HHpHwmriPHeiEZJjUlyXjOrxtRnjkSSoxCsPrTtnIQ9L1WocWGKLnp5tPmayv5HhEIhyphenhyphenKvXM2rRo0h72QZ2zTYEGcWGrpY7AskWrd3SwZcI/s1600/Cottonwood44a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3UMGs6BywEq94lxNHFR36Gl4lf1-eXvj0HHpHwmriPHeiEZJjUlyXjOrxtRnjkSSoxCsPrTtnIQ9L1WocWGKLnp5tPmayv5HhEIhyphenhyphenKvXM2rRo0h72QZ2zTYEGcWGrpY7AskWrd3SwZcI/s320/Cottonwood44a.jpg" title="High Lake" width="320" /></a>After getting down from the pass, the trail passes alongside the first lake, High Lake. And continues on along the exposed terrain climbing down to another lake, Long Lake.<br />
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There's a small clearing right next to the lake that can make for a good camp. Coming down, you won't miss this clearing, flat spots evenly spaced in between pines. It was almost as if they were strategically planted to make this the designated camping area.<br />
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The trail skirts along this aptly named Long Lake and walks thru in between sparsely growing pines.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Ys5yOLnGKvmpZArzR4iuH0rvys01niAWy_05yUBbrnZ1Fywq851CO81nEJK3T5mBmreaTyfiVrqvSnfw05SPbdHz-qza_OcKhBO8qvweMUng7shyaJO90bCsM43YaqMEbyuQFYUerdU/s1600/Cottonwood45a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Ys5yOLnGKvmpZArzR4iuH0rvys01niAWy_05yUBbrnZ1Fywq851CO81nEJK3T5mBmreaTyfiVrqvSnfw05SPbdHz-qza_OcKhBO8qvweMUng7shyaJO90bCsM43YaqMEbyuQFYUerdU/s640/Cottonwood45a.jpg" title="Long Lake" width="640" /></a></div>
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After about a mile after leaving Long Lake, with views of the South Fork Lakes to our right, we arrived at the first of the Cottonwood Lakes.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZJ41TznWcx9nyRh8QDLbkCO4GYozqYhh6sK7FXVDd1PB9pt254QPoP0szl3n5FIKFYVVQ7ry_6Zbk-yBuru-X5En5SeSkdZWu6JdDdOaXwrwQ34dDZUDl2beAZrN6bdLMM0c1zzwYldo/s1600/Cottonwood46a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZJ41TznWcx9nyRh8QDLbkCO4GYozqYhh6sK7FXVDd1PB9pt254QPoP0szl3n5FIKFYVVQ7ry_6Zbk-yBuru-X5En5SeSkdZWu6JdDdOaXwrwQ34dDZUDl2beAZrN6bdLMM0c1zzwYldo/s400/Cottonwood46a.jpg" title="Cottonwood Lake 2" width="400" /></a></div>
We walked by a couple of tents pitched alongside the trail (not much for privacy) and completely missed the connecting trail that could take us to Cottonwood Lakes 3, 4 and eventually 5. We calculated our options to backtrack and catch the trail again given that we had plenty of daylight still or just abandon that idea and head back out to town tossing the task of doing rations of "Aunt Flo's" supplies and get more supplies then regroup ourselves. We opted for the latter.<br />
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It was a quick decision and the group was up for it. Flexibility and dynamics of everyone goes along way when the universe throws a monkey wrench on your plans.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGqGWxpxshZkrIAHJHsvjFBkjWxTcKah7xxHUmH3XY6mArVJ0t5DQ8z5O-S874ajGy59h_cixgnafhMmDY5ofAV0tttj2dTccRMYUw8CB6bbBVKNkYfFqkPmaW9hU_ocTnQb3QsPa5XA0/s1600/Cottonwood47a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGqGWxpxshZkrIAHJHsvjFBkjWxTcKah7xxHUmH3XY6mArVJ0t5DQ8z5O-S874ajGy59h_cixgnafhMmDY5ofAV0tttj2dTccRMYUw8CB6bbBVKNkYfFqkPmaW9hU_ocTnQb3QsPa5XA0/s320/Cottonwood47a.jpg" title="trail junction at 10,475 feet elevation" width="240" /></a>After a quarter of a mile, we whizzed pass the junction to the South Fork Lakes and Cirque Lake and quickly found ourselves shaded within the forest.<br />
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A mile in the forest at 10,475 feet elevation, we stopped at the signed trail junction to the other trail that also leads to Cottonwood Lakes 3, 4, 5 and the trail to Muir Lake when coming from Horseshoe Meadow.<br />
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We are now about 3.5 miles away from our parked vehicle!<br />
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The trail continues on through the forest, crosses a creek via a single log bridge. Around a mile and a half from the last trail junction, the trail leaves the John Muir Wilderness and we're now back to the Golden Trout Wilderness we started at.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyKZFT8sIHlSIdZIGD-pEzPRzRTvVVXaYVpddn31ctIIExh5eV4vswPLMqEtHhYJxQAYrI8peU9UO_k1NC3GskXA2r-3GqO4ToOW2G5xhfI4Y8ceDdJjj5qjH3cmE9ySi-YunfwdUZED0/s1600/Cottonwood48a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyKZFT8sIHlSIdZIGD-pEzPRzRTvVVXaYVpddn31ctIIExh5eV4vswPLMqEtHhYJxQAYrI8peU9UO_k1NC3GskXA2r-3GqO4ToOW2G5xhfI4Y8ceDdJjj5qjH3cmE9ySi-YunfwdUZED0/s640/Cottonwood48a.jpg" title="Log crossing." width="640" /></a></div>
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We passed by a trail junction that is used by the Golden Trout Camp, a historical camp with log and tent cabins for lodging that offers horse riding exploration of the area. Dug around the internet and found their website, for more information: <a href="http://www.goldentroutworkshops.org/" target="_blank">http://www.goldentroutworkshops.org/</a><br />
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We made it to the Cottonwood Lakes trail head with still lots of daylight left. Joe dumped his pack with us and jumped back on his feet to walk over to the other parking lot to grab his car then drove back to pick us up.<br />
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We gave a ride to a climber until Whitney Portal Road then drove straight to Lone Pine to catch the last available room at the Dow Villa Hotel. Then to the Bi-Rite Market the supplies savior, just before it closes. And eventually dinner, just before that one closes, too! Phew, made it! Everything closes early around here. I keep forgetting.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinld8uhB8Og0aRv8iqAK79BkmNLpA8ykKwJij72a69FC7yPiYXhjXIBMoh33FdTOOjjdjqjtgQ8QY1i368FWHTPec86PBaAjATTJDslj9KYRDz_86qKgW3JXrjizoH9HBSihAsDVIMaj4/s1600/CottonwoodEND.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinld8uhB8Og0aRv8iqAK79BkmNLpA8ykKwJij72a69FC7yPiYXhjXIBMoh33FdTOOjjdjqjtgQ8QY1i368FWHTPec86PBaAjATTJDslj9KYRDz_86qKgW3JXrjizoH9HBSihAsDVIMaj4/s320/CottonwoodEND.jpg" title="El fin." width="320" /></a></div>
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Oshiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14465513929689702140noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441758913129244733.post-8084544849004257742015-07-31T16:07:00.003-07:002015-07-31T16:07:38.622-07:00Twin Lakes Trail - Sequoia National Park, CA<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD7SVlLQiCJWypSo3ec2O93afi6NCLVX9lWGv0YNQ5NQu2Xt0dWFr2xueWBa6mqbZ9HkxrCRb5CkB_YDjhutWSGlGfdnaRnNk3GXipLIlvvCRXuZBNxiyW5FuWtbAm1deZ6szda6OZUXE/s1600/HeaderTWNa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD7SVlLQiCJWypSo3ec2O93afi6NCLVX9lWGv0YNQ5NQu2Xt0dWFr2xueWBa6mqbZ9HkxrCRb5CkB_YDjhutWSGlGfdnaRnNk3GXipLIlvvCRXuZBNxiyW5FuWtbAm1deZ6szda6OZUXE/s640/HeaderTWNa.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Of all the overnight trips this weekend warrior has done, the trail to Twin Lakes is one of the prettiest trails I have trekked on. It wasn't just about the beautiful destination (mind you, the lake <i>was</i> beautiful!) but the journey to it was so laden with enough trees, wildflowers, greenery and rocks laid out so strategically perfect that only Mother Nature can claim to its art.<br />
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The Twin Lakes Trail is one of the many jump off points to get deeper into the wilderness of Sequoia National Park and National Forest. Or, in our case, a perfect lake destination for a quick weekend getaway. Though longer in mileage for some folks in the group has ever backpacked before, this trail has a good balance of incline, for a good workout, and flat spots, to help catch your breath.<br />
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This trail is not as popular as the Lakes Trail in the Wolverton area (and not to be confused by it), but it still gets its fair share of foot traffic. On our visit, we had a good balance of solitude and social interaction with other hikers and other backpackers. There were parts of the trail that it was just us walking, then we'd occasionally leap frog with a group or come across one or two day hikers.<br />
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<h3>
Trail Stats</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvppXLbHKObKby0ZtR3RzKQFkbQ0KnQ3-OhLNrSbG2Nhyw44NqWrJBO38pjXGjdRbDBT693wmJWTnS4P04N064nZOYEcV7LlRFHGcV2m9W5G8QAUrzyBlMPyw58HlZys4dCCpIf6KMsU4/s1600/TWINLAKESTH.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvppXLbHKObKby0ZtR3RzKQFkbQ0KnQ3-OhLNrSbG2Nhyw44NqWrJBO38pjXGjdRbDBT693wmJWTnS4P04N064nZOYEcV7LlRFHGcV2m9W5G8QAUrzyBlMPyw58HlZys4dCCpIf6KMsU4/s320/TWINLAKESTH.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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<ul>
<li>Miles: 14 miles round trip to Twin Lakes (9,419 feet)</li>
<li>Elevation gain/loss: 2,719 feet </li>
<li>Type: Out and back</li>
<li>Trail head: Lodgepole Campground (6,700 feet)</li>
<li>Location: Sequoia National Park</li>
<li>Permit: Lodgepole Visitor Center; Wilderness Desk hours are 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.; Required permits for overnight trips but not for day hikes</li>
<li>Notes: Open air pit toilet; 2 bear proof boxes located separately in camp; No campfires allowed</li>
<li>Weather Forecast via NOAA: <a href="http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lon=-118.7346201904296&lat=36.63065033823423#.Vbfoo_lViko">Twin Lakes Area Weather</a></li>
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<h3>
Permit</h3>
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Permits can be reserved in advance by filling up this PDF form: <a href="http://www.nps.gov/seki/planyourvisit/upload/2014-Wilderness-permit-application_20140411-2.pdf">Wilderness Permit Application</a>, then mailed or faxed. A permit costs $15.00 each group, payable to the National Park Service by check, money order or credit/debit card.</div>
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About 25% of the trail head's daily quota are available for walk-up, if you plan not to reserve your permit or were not able to obtain one in advance. The price for the wilderness camping permit stays the same, $15.00.</div>
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If you have reserved a permit, a confirmation will be sent via email (if provided) but you will still need to pick up your actual permit at the wilderness desk at 1:00 p.m. the day before your entry date or when the desk opens on the day of your entry.</div>
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<h3>
Parking</h3>
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The parking lot is located inside the Lodgepole Campground, beyond the visitor center and market place. Passing the ranger's kiosk, continue straight on the paved road, skipping 3 campground loops (2 on the right and 1 on the left), you'll arrive at a huge space of parking lot meant as camper's overflow and trail head parking.</div>
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Leave your vehicle here, after emptying it for any scented items. There are a few bear proof lockers on the edge of the lot (mostly labeled "EXTRA") that you can use to store your extra scented items so you don't leave those in your car for the bear to sniff around for.<br />
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Heads up: these are a community lockers, do not leave your valuables.</div>
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Ready to get on the trail?<br />
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Well not yet, you still need to walk up to the trailhead :)<br />
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<h3>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwqijOvuoDpeXj1zNBzbt5IX0i4N5x5KOYHxZIKourj2kllGUwdobM1Yw1_exIZgWZMx0tkfuZXZDLrVGm0y__IDoaRIAqjBMAKzJU5zrUXNXmSQ34c0uqkHsM9mYupuONqTqR1X7cDiY/s1600/TWN1a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwqijOvuoDpeXj1zNBzbt5IX0i4N5x5KOYHxZIKourj2kllGUwdobM1Yw1_exIZgWZMx0tkfuZXZDLrVGm0y__IDoaRIAqjBMAKzJU5zrUXNXmSQ34c0uqkHsM9mYupuONqTqR1X7cDiY/s400/TWN1a.jpg" title="Twin Lakes Trail Head" width="400" /></a>
Trail Head</h3>
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From the parking lot, follow the paved road and walk towards the log bridge located past the restroom structure.<br />
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Cross the bridge and you'll first come across the Tokopah Falls Trail head on the left, a 1.7 mile day trip to a beautiful waterfalls with the Watchtower looming above it. Skip that for when you get back, if you have the time.</div>
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The Twin Lakes is the next trail head over, with just a few more steps, immediately right next to the first camp site of Camp Loop 151-214, also after crossing the bridge.</div>
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<h3>
The Hike</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgix_Yq5Mw1Sa3JHIVo6PXh_g5PUUQsR0hTpN9AIfirvGHIVt3nHHOV6wQO8y-6C1ons9HPFKaYMLU5lmOOhX95ljTs2qGbckheoqsk_7XFreSDQWGmPsIjW7LcK-DlWYjRig66DJDm9qU/s1600/TWN2a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgix_Yq5Mw1Sa3JHIVo6PXh_g5PUUQsR0hTpN9AIfirvGHIVt3nHHOV6wQO8y-6C1ons9HPFKaYMLU5lmOOhX95ljTs2qGbckheoqsk_7XFreSDQWGmPsIjW7LcK-DlWYjRig66DJDm9qU/s320/TWN2a.jpg" title="First stretch of the trail." width="240" /></a><i>(For reference purposes on how the trail looks like on the following pictures, the hike was done on July 18-19, 2014, one of California's drought years.) </i></div>
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Now your feet touches dirt!</div>
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The hike starts gradually climbing out of the Lodgepole Campground and then through the trees. It won't be long till you're up above the campground and eventually lose sound and sight of the car campers.<br />
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The trail occasionally would open up and be exposed. The sun would beat down on you if it's out shining and it's midday. But eventually, you'll be back shaded by the trees again.<br />
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At 1.6 miles, you'll arrive at the first trail junction on this hike that connects the trail you started with at Lodgepole Campground, to a trail that will lead you to, or chose to start from, the Wuksachi Lodge.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihecjDf1ovUvBKZ_dzcxzTbJlN3IM-HYp3lAXMiSUDwCjOLrmEDuxM9A4JVfBbHCzFVPcFoI3R6UHk2E4f_btVGwgHeoVJ_reSQA6tXr_YtgMNo3slpeX4QnjLcrgvf2AtM7SuR2neNEM/s1600/TWIN3a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihecjDf1ovUvBKZ_dzcxzTbJlN3IM-HYp3lAXMiSUDwCjOLrmEDuxM9A4JVfBbHCzFVPcFoI3R6UHk2E4f_btVGwgHeoVJ_reSQA6tXr_YtgMNo3slpeX4QnjLcrgvf2AtM7SuR2neNEM/s640/TWIN3a.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwpE4Jul6xh7_bfyUvOzyhLH1FwSvPMnQCx_gZNkKWyr0x0vnnC4ecR6hJHsaR8VK7ybqqtTOfa9CC1WEKmH5ua7PSnqZULlO9GfDyCMCU2Y7GUgHPJ9FlciCrnHOm8Mckww2G9HYWhbk/s1600/TWIN4a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwpE4Jul6xh7_bfyUvOzyhLH1FwSvPMnQCx_gZNkKWyr0x0vnnC4ecR6hJHsaR8VK7ybqqtTOfa9CC1WEKmH5ua7PSnqZULlO9GfDyCMCU2Y7GUgHPJ9FlciCrnHOm8Mckww2G9HYWhbk/s320/TWIN4a.jpg" width="320" /></a>A little less than a mile after, you'll arrive at a creek crossing with a very well signed distance mileage.<br />
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At this point it is 4.7 miles to Twin Lakes. Be aware of the sign right next to the creek, there is no camping, picnicking or swimming. It is apparently used as direct water source for the residents/structures below that need it. Which was kind of a bummer, for a little bit of rock scrambling upstream, saw some really awesome pools to dip and wade in.. perfect on a hot weather.<br />
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But we're headed to a lake anyways.. so off we go!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXJZg8MQkiYEvRfA6lDw-HszXKDY53ikXu1-Y0yaVk9Jzp3XnFu4VD6-HVrEhaS0mD3oFa0JW2t5MudoXsVWGD8t-A4PFPXEZ0A6-xLWfh0GuN3GjGkla0K6oYkrW2SA-rwKPlok6xm1c/s1600/TWIN5a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXJZg8MQkiYEvRfA6lDw-HszXKDY53ikXu1-Y0yaVk9Jzp3XnFu4VD6-HVrEhaS0mD3oFa0JW2t5MudoXsVWGD8t-A4PFPXEZ0A6-xLWfh0GuN3GjGkla0K6oYkrW2SA-rwKPlok6xm1c/s640/TWIN5a.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Immediately after the creek crossing, the trail continues on a few staircase-like steps before eventually going back to its usual inclined walk up. The trail got cut-off on a few places because of a few large downed trees but it doesn't totally disappear.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgESjV1tNoCfIGAhDJR6PVznNk742w1dgZKUmE5N_pHqDDjV9xcz0q_9_LVnEGf3qh7dzuo7KfvDIFWdl0_2MIHtL44jeM4GErr02WvojyK6GgL_z2j7goWbzoQZUBZh0HqPGoOikzvAUk/s1600/TWIN6a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgESjV1tNoCfIGAhDJR6PVznNk742w1dgZKUmE5N_pHqDDjV9xcz0q_9_LVnEGf3qh7dzuo7KfvDIFWdl0_2MIHtL44jeM4GErr02WvojyK6GgL_z2j7goWbzoQZUBZh0HqPGoOikzvAUk/s640/TWIN6a.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUKfL_f6fA0Lybn2q2WihYFvH92C9ZxjZjMI9tPD4OahXErI1gM1LWYy9L5EeEm8h4U8V4IeC60mzMkCgrJy-dfmTLxrJRjvoCapX7XgJfjztZU1UP7pYIBj3fsWjReM2SVibGPH6_t5U/s1600/TWIN7a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUKfL_f6fA0Lybn2q2WihYFvH92C9ZxjZjMI9tPD4OahXErI1gM1LWYy9L5EeEm8h4U8V4IeC60mzMkCgrJy-dfmTLxrJRjvoCapX7XgJfjztZU1UP7pYIBj3fsWjReM2SVibGPH6_t5U/s320/TWIN7a.jpg" width="320" /></a>At about mile 3, the trail flattens out by Cahoon Meadow. On the NPS website's trail description this is the first area you can camp. We didn't stop in this area for fear of mosquitoes swarming us if we do, so we didn't get to check out possible sites in the area to note for future reference. The only suitable spot for camping we found on passing though, was a small clearing between the trail and the meadow's edge. No bear proof box.<br />
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Climbing out from the meadow, the trail continues on to a ridge, opening up to a beautiful vista of the valley with Cahoon Meadow, that you just came from, off to the left of the view.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXPL4O0JO9OA-ToAX0VIUxdBhC0MoHuIxWkPkZNJJdsbf9b_UqIdCyZXA1REbZwT7BdjeSC-YotPdYnyRR8-QC6wKweZznjBZPkFqQWmRNFjNpnqZLog_s8IEQYWipbnR5H4TTFA5LGYU/s1600/TWIN7a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXPL4O0JO9OA-ToAX0VIUxdBhC0MoHuIxWkPkZNJJdsbf9b_UqIdCyZXA1REbZwT7BdjeSC-YotPdYnyRR8-QC6wKweZznjBZPkFqQWmRNFjNpnqZLog_s8IEQYWipbnR5H4TTFA5LGYU/s640/TWIN7a.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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After that moment of open view, the trail continues to gently climb on, back through the trees and shade.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrr91U1KToleIS3pV20pSA5BCwcJUVMrGoaf3oqwP-Y56yNXd6JltpBdAE5VnF3_Hey_TvPt807RCWDhSJbp9R6BwhQE1IAmFR9k_COmFHYw-w7n_spNcLZ0a49-xm0-1a_ivT9-y14KA/s1600/TWIN9a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrr91U1KToleIS3pV20pSA5BCwcJUVMrGoaf3oqwP-Y56yNXd6JltpBdAE5VnF3_Hey_TvPt807RCWDhSJbp9R6BwhQE1IAmFR9k_COmFHYw-w7n_spNcLZ0a49-xm0-1a_ivT9-y14KA/s640/TWIN9a.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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A little over a mile from Cahoon Meadow, you'll arrive at Cahoon Gap at 8,645 feet elevation. A nice midway spot we chose to stop for a long lunch to refuel and regroup the crew.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOzt5yP2MitOYTK7Bqr7OaVtUM8DF7BYYHtc28JAZEauIm9ru8c5F89hphI82vjv57rwEoYe2hYPMBj3XoduGIMAI9AJoYPeTb0CRZJCwrxs4B5AFRpMQgf4XoKw2vY69xwP8Qm36kKh0/s1600/TWIN10a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOzt5yP2MitOYTK7Bqr7OaVtUM8DF7BYYHtc28JAZEauIm9ru8c5F89hphI82vjv57rwEoYe2hYPMBj3XoduGIMAI9AJoYPeTb0CRZJCwrxs4B5AFRpMQgf4XoKw2vY69xwP8Qm36kKh0/s640/TWIN10a.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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As we noticed a few clouds roll in the distance in the general direction we were headed, we contemplated camping out at Clover Creek then just make a quick visit to the lake the following morning. But everyone was dead set in camping by the lake. Who wouldn't be? It's a lake!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjwmmZuKuTdeTQAI3pak3uA5o6Yi6HkLIZQa1vjZoDGcAbcBCKRknDIq7uWZVL1U87uaRIyLfBMh0c2YTED1xG6PyqxSXZVphrGIBo8ij1sbItlwPWr8jtkBqLLpSyjYmUdmG4HFI743M/s1600/TWIN11a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjwmmZuKuTdeTQAI3pak3uA5o6Yi6HkLIZQa1vjZoDGcAbcBCKRknDIq7uWZVL1U87uaRIyLfBMh0c2YTED1xG6PyqxSXZVphrGIBo8ij1sbItlwPWr8jtkBqLLpSyjYmUdmG4HFI743M/s320/TWIN11a.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
The next 0.6 miles from Cahoon Gap to Clover Creek is all downhill.<br />
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We rolled into Clover Creek in no time with a bit of sun still shining. The sky has not poured just yet.<br />
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After crossing a creek, we spotted 1 of the 2 bear proof boxes in this area just to our right. There were a lot of good flat even spaces to pitch your tent, well shaded by the trees. Though with all the plantation and the creek, I could just imagine what it's like the "golden mosquito hour".<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeec-EtLDcmLvoF4ObHTeW8zaIKPVHK8-MGQgO4Qpglop3ll7z1T195UvmouAuEhRgslrNvRiYSxoXUSDg85fiEzZVtACIRvTsvuydJH-09lH3lgEQI8282-2SK0DUmAc4_nC4mTkPQ1w/s1600/TWIN12a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeec-EtLDcmLvoF4ObHTeW8zaIKPVHK8-MGQgO4Qpglop3ll7z1T195UvmouAuEhRgslrNvRiYSxoXUSDg85fiEzZVtACIRvTsvuydJH-09lH3lgEQI8282-2SK0DUmAc4_nC4mTkPQ1w/s640/TWIN12a.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoteH4Mx_uSCv6uMOQOCQNDLzXDQeJ6apqzfBu7GM4WJ2DLqTpHbNTpG7Y1GVx3MWZBpSWTmDQf4Mgwk0cQnVX1GVAmm4qP5d6_Meqjitj_x7TT_Frwn23YackHXdzAy68nO8zCX8CbOM/s1600/TWIN13a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoteH4Mx_uSCv6uMOQOCQNDLzXDQeJ6apqzfBu7GM4WJ2DLqTpHbNTpG7Y1GVx3MWZBpSWTmDQf4Mgwk0cQnVX1GVAmm4qP5d6_Meqjitj_x7TT_Frwn23YackHXdzAy68nO8zCX8CbOM/s640/TWIN13a.jpg" title="One of the two bear proof boxes" width="640" /></a></div>
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After spotting the first bear proof box, it was another 0.2 mile where we found the other box tucked away amongst the trees. This is also where the next trail junction is.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6zxnJN2tgpJG1Vi18IzThHAQ3Ev_yWy3rfNK_KaxHrsYSbNadBh3FPPx1M8nk9NPXR3Ej3C2WS2eOl-w737U5JS7V-WSQx0Ysf5RWcPFKYEfhHQApQaXyDOIznjlWLf1b5Y3vg7riGic/s1600/TWIN14a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6zxnJN2tgpJG1Vi18IzThHAQ3Ev_yWy3rfNK_KaxHrsYSbNadBh3FPPx1M8nk9NPXR3Ej3C2WS2eOl-w737U5JS7V-WSQx0Ysf5RWcPFKYEfhHQApQaXyDOIznjlWLf1b5Y3vg7riGic/s640/TWIN14a.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The trail forks to continue on to Twin Lakes to the right, while the left fork takes you to J.O. Pass accessing the Jennie Lakes Wilderness/ Belle Canyon/ Big Meadows area. We hopped on the right fork.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuV8Vd7Pqvt63y6KcUdTFEdcY4noAjlMpHtVcKvLHV2f-yltRb0P6dw-FbbTcIJSmOCczrKt11eD1FPi_n1iEiXhKaiCkNPrSCv8O8vbS1RR-aRqzDlnbrcW_JtR1zufwfmTp4zo3NOQI/s1600/TWIN14ab.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuV8Vd7Pqvt63y6KcUdTFEdcY4noAjlMpHtVcKvLHV2f-yltRb0P6dw-FbbTcIJSmOCczrKt11eD1FPi_n1iEiXhKaiCkNPrSCv8O8vbS1RR-aRqzDlnbrcW_JtR1zufwfmTp4zo3NOQI/s640/TWIN14ab.jpg" title="Trail junction. Second bear proof box behind sign." width="640" /></a></div>
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Not long after leaving the junction, we.. actually just me.. spotted a a beautiful blonde colored black bear strutting his stuff gracefully around. I called out to Kari who was hiking in front of me, but I think that scared the bear away and sent him scurrying the other direction. We kept looking for him to catch another glimpse but a downhill hiker just confirmed how far he scurried on along. Oh well. At least I got to see him --- this earned me a jealous piercing look from Kari *insert sheepish grin here*.<br />
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The first 0.5 miles of the next 1.7 miles was relatively flat.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZcICcFVEM6khemhuEIlQQahP6avoyjdlIObeldZqAm_6RGrrMqHxTW8GCyzGMezoQ0_bDmCYJZNd8DD0r-CXh3WtByY9BQBtCvQvfmhe6SyrDsRII-TMwGpDl4NUfEf-D1fgtxBDBqRA/s1600/TWIN18a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZcICcFVEM6khemhuEIlQQahP6avoyjdlIObeldZqAm_6RGrrMqHxTW8GCyzGMezoQ0_bDmCYJZNd8DD0r-CXh3WtByY9BQBtCvQvfmhe6SyrDsRII-TMwGpDl4NUfEf-D1fgtxBDBqRA/s400/TWIN18a.jpg" title="Cascade of water tot he right? Ok, maybe a trickle." width="300" /></a>After crossing another small creek, the trail started climbing back up again. The trail passes along a small cascade of water on a "staircase like" sculpture of rocks. This must have been a sight to see after a wet winter season.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE9GuRub2F5Sl1gknwEI8SkhRxOt2_DTNw_xwqdLSbkY-pBwkPruxAsvrMdcuB4-uBDyqQeQOHmihWueW2aVfDBokTsf1PHKPkf4R7p2GzWNG94zz6jIJ1QEEHt1wH8SglPXy5SiDHyv4/s1600/TWIN16a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE9GuRub2F5Sl1gknwEI8SkhRxOt2_DTNw_xwqdLSbkY-pBwkPruxAsvrMdcuB4-uBDyqQeQOHmihWueW2aVfDBokTsf1PHKPkf4R7p2GzWNG94zz6jIJ1QEEHt1wH8SglPXy5SiDHyv4/s400/TWIN16a.jpg" title="Clouds are rolling in.. aahhh!" width="300" /></a>This part of the trail is a series of switchbacks commonly seen in the sierra trails, going up all the way to Twin Lakes.<br />
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And this is the point we finally got up close to the rolling dark clouds we saw earlier in the distance. And mother nature started her rhythmic base musical ensemble. Thunder was booming one after the other but no sign of lightning. We inched our way on the last leg of the hike making it just in time before the sky opened up. Though without at least drenching some of us.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTE65L9FAyxWj2xlnDpyEtM4SAUcPRrW2-Z7MYJLVG037xL_cSVZpCPAThY_IBlW1BQv1-IMqWT_PMGMeF6iKMo9PTKdMu6Ey5F2kgHXnG2Xe74HJRc2DWOkLzpVo5ETQE7GTCqT25xE0/s1600/TWIN21a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTE65L9FAyxWj2xlnDpyEtM4SAUcPRrW2-Z7MYJLVG037xL_cSVZpCPAThY_IBlW1BQv1-IMqWT_PMGMeF6iKMo9PTKdMu6Ey5F2kgHXnG2Xe74HJRc2DWOkLzpVo5ETQE7GTCqT25xE0/s400/TWIN21a.jpg" title="We've arrived! Still dry." width="400" /></a></div>
Arriving at camp, Big Lake is the first of the two lakes you'll see after spotting the sign marking you've arrived (No camp fires!). A bear proof box is on the left along with the sign pointing to where the pit toilet is tucked away.<br />
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Yes, there's an open air pit toilet here. Some folks might say it's a luxury but I personally kinda prefer a cat hole than holding my breath though.<br />
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A couple of big groups were already settled in but the area has lots of space to choose from.<br />
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The camp area is between the two lakes, aptly named Big Lake and Little Lake (makes you smile, no? Someone must've ran out of lake names). Twin Peaks can be seen towering above on the Little Lake side.<br />
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There is another bear proof box further along the trail that goes through the camp.<br />
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The clouds quickly shrouded the lake.. and the entire camp. And it poured. But the rain let up in time for us to have dinner and filter water for breakfast.<br />
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The following morning we explored more in the area. Giving it a good guess that because of the still ongoing drought years, Little Lake is divided into 3 sections and in between them are bogs or marshes (squishy.. watch your step!).<br />
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It was a cloudy morning but the sun fought long and hard and eventually won over the clouds and we saw the lakes against blue skies for a bit.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz2JWOXjpjOAOTasdl3L-_aIYzfhlE7yChgJYPR-SU3OZEpwRCsPxTwUsdGhwyy42oL5zmNdZuRTYJov_GyWziuQ9TEVD4t8EeolbQaRsxbikpv4UfAAA2r1nKw4tfE_JHbR1DK13MnI8/s1600/TWIN26a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz2JWOXjpjOAOTasdl3L-_aIYzfhlE7yChgJYPR-SU3OZEpwRCsPxTwUsdGhwyy42oL5zmNdZuRTYJov_GyWziuQ9TEVD4t8EeolbQaRsxbikpv4UfAAA2r1nKw4tfE_JHbR1DK13MnI8/s640/TWIN26a.jpg" title="Little Lake" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdMhlNDnbD-jGM1AybM2cqudIm6mzBGB2lLzwecmEzjV0TYHbE7Un5dr02OnidO12ouRKxbTgNE7VEoPrCSmOPiRN771wnQTqKPcWtwQGx4e5by06jo5Rhw54DBQEe1qbwHBPZ5lSTcVU/s1600/TWIN27a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdMhlNDnbD-jGM1AybM2cqudIm6mzBGB2lLzwecmEzjV0TYHbE7Un5dr02OnidO12ouRKxbTgNE7VEoPrCSmOPiRN771wnQTqKPcWtwQGx4e5by06jo5Rhw54DBQEe1qbwHBPZ5lSTcVU/s320/TWIN27a.jpg" title="Sierra Lupine along the trail." width="320" /></a>We packed up and left camp glad that the sun is still out and shining. The hike back was a bear-less event.<br />
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We took a break at Cahoon Gap again but this time a shorter break, our radiant sunshine hike was short-lived. In the distance, towards the direction we were headed, those same thick dark ominous clouds were waiting for us... again.<br />
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Sure enough, we ended with a wet weekend. Even the entire drive home to Los Angeles.<br />
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<br />Oshiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14465513929689702140noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441758913129244733.post-78602800364597375852015-07-03T11:49:00.004-07:002015-07-03T11:49:52.874-07:00Meysan Lake Trail - Inyo National Forest, CAIn Whitney Portal and in need of a leg-busting, whoop-your-butt, feeling-like-on-top-of-the-world, beautiful trail to hike on?<br />
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May I introduce you to the Meysan Lake Trail. A trail within close proximity to the infamous trail to the highest peak on the lower 50 states, Mount Whitney, this place gets little visit in comparison.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDXCPr-FwVzj5r8Xf841uU9btPHh9uwnTsFQXDhwmdhTvDZyiYCT2rixQN4Sg120c_SFDUYEnvCP5rUPp0rTsz-PdHF7Q8IdgC9E-3pdml17mdeWDbKBaUWEcNMSf9Szv4N8arAoX1KmA/s1600/Meysan1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDXCPr-FwVzj5r8Xf841uU9btPHh9uwnTsFQXDhwmdhTvDZyiYCT2rixQN4Sg120c_SFDUYEnvCP5rUPp0rTsz-PdHF7Q8IdgC9E-3pdml17mdeWDbKBaUWEcNMSf9Szv4N8arAoX1KmA/s640/Meysan1.jpg" title="Spot a purple speck? That's me! Photo by Ryan." width="640" /></a></div>
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<ul>
<li>Miles: 8 miles Round Trip to Grass Lake (11,200 feet)</li>
<li>Elevation gain/loss: 3,120 feet</li>
<li>Type: Out and Back</li>
<li>Trailhead: Whitney Portal Campground (8,080 feet)</li>
<li>Location: Inyo National Forest, CA</li>
<li>Permit: Overnight only; Not required for day hike</li>
<li>Permit Issuer: Easter Sierra Inter Agency Visitor Center - US 395, Lone Pine, CA</li>
<li>Notes: Primitive campsites; No bear box/food lockers available; Mostly exposed trail; No campfires allowed; Strenous</li>
<li>Weather Forecast via NOAA: <a href="http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lon=-118.24915&lat=36.55884#.VZRhKvlViko" target="_blank">Meysan Lake Trail Weather</a></li>
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<h3>
Permit</h3>
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Permits for overnight trips are free for walk-ups and can be obtained at the Eastern Sierra Inter Agency Visitor Center in Lone Pine at the corner of US 395 and SR 136. However fees apply if you reserve in advance. For a fee, permit can be reserved online at <a href="http://www.recreation.gov/unifSearchInterface.do?interface=applypermit&contractCode=NRSO&parkId=72203">recreation.gov</a> and choose <u>JM37</u> for Meysan Lake. Fees are $5.00 per person with $6.00 added after the per person total as "reservation fee".</div>
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An email confirmation will be emailed to you after reservation with instructions to complete your permit application.</div>
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Parking</h3>
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No lot.</div>
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"Parking is more of a turnout along the Whitney Portal Road" - Permit Issuer at Lone Pine.</div>
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If headed up, it will be on the left. If coming down from the Whitney Portal Store, it will be on your right. There are signs that say "Meysan Lake Trailhead" on the side of the road from both directions. The turnout is between both signs. Park by the closed metal bar gate above the Whitney Campground.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDx5LwOSRTzfhtCLtI56IKXBhE5Sse9ITKeIfH9b6hN7h0LiuBVyWWMX_Ac2TvrTdTn6ubnrtUnx8Z3Ek8YJJURFUquATofm0JDaH0vHISFpPDrhCSoaTVVShXkOzN3S39wXFEKT50KWw/s1600/Meysan2a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDx5LwOSRTzfhtCLtI56IKXBhE5Sse9ITKeIfH9b6hN7h0LiuBVyWWMX_Ac2TvrTdTn6ubnrtUnx8Z3Ek8YJJURFUquATofm0JDaH0vHISFpPDrhCSoaTVVShXkOzN3S39wXFEKT50KWw/s320/Meysan2a.jpg" title="Large bear boxes/ food lockers beside this interpretative sign." width="240" /></a>The Hike</h3>
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As soon as you park your car, walk past thru the metal bar gate. Beyond it, there is a large sized bear box or food locker to store all the scented items you have so your car will be less likely be rummaged through by a bear. Bears are active in this area. Whitney Portal gets really busy and where there's food.. yogi can come by sniffin' and trying to score an easy meal. Cars have been known to have been broken into around these parts.</div>
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When we picked up our permit, we were informed that the only lockers available were by the Portal Store, which is still a mile up the road from the Meysan trail head. So we used that, only to find out after we parked that there is one specifically labeled "For Meysan Lake Trail Use". Last use for established pit toilets here, too.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4UxdqMEGolTjKl3DjRha6W65ZGaZDeNZ7jwf1GALSgkseR3uyd5xsiCKaUbNqh7okedxvjkpMnyDmJH7FOCw2F6yn5tKHRr6nr64CeqFGL31Kb-Qo9YRWmgqeIn0ym9n-uEvq00rfYy4/s1600/Meysan3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4UxdqMEGolTjKl3DjRha6W65ZGaZDeNZ7jwf1GALSgkseR3uyd5xsiCKaUbNqh7okedxvjkpMnyDmJH7FOCw2F6yn5tKHRr6nr64CeqFGL31Kb-Qo9YRWmgqeIn0ym9n-uEvq00rfYy4/s320/Meysan3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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To get to the actual trailhead, you'll walk through the Whitney Campground along the pavement towards the "back" of the campground. Then step onto a dirt trail for a couple of switchbacks, past some Summer log cabin homes. Then back on the dirt trail again.. for good. The direction going towards the trailhead are clearly marked by signs.. easy to follow.</div>
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The dirt trail from the campground, before the actual trail, was a great indicatiion of how the rest of the hike will play out. It is going up.. up.. and up. It didn't take long (just minutes in, actually!) before the trail took us up and above the Whitney Portal Road.<br />
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The hike up is mostly on exposed trail. The higher the elevation, the lesser the trees. So bring bring a hat, sunblock or an umbrella if you are so inclined!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx3IEzAYCw6VKSWA4z0WCkPRnVVNjkSAaz6apJDH1iwm4hld9ioqHniiEClR6AyVH3LEXmMYnHeCtcBm8YtlG11atPFy8EXLGvH3n9tsioNpMv3XUIlAE-qVyw4Lxyfqv666fD2KPrH1Q/s1600/Meysan6a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx3IEzAYCw6VKSWA4z0WCkPRnVVNjkSAaz6apJDH1iwm4hld9ioqHniiEClR6AyVH3LEXmMYnHeCtcBm8YtlG11atPFy8EXLGvH3n9tsioNpMv3XUIlAE-qVyw4Lxyfqv666fD2KPrH1Q/s640/Meysan6a.jpg" title="Meysan Lake Trail going up!" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiRSA-5D1E2crGMuTVOutbjaRCiDDncvEeUHDBO_fe0wuxziK4aPa_hqQeM2XGn4G8c9B5YcfQE93UvIGR2V35lPnH2clX-80oNEgkHP_uztDe1hXNO8DpICcCB6Vfz0YniIOtgGpvHls/s1600/Meysan7a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiRSA-5D1E2crGMuTVOutbjaRCiDDncvEeUHDBO_fe0wuxziK4aPa_hqQeM2XGn4G8c9B5YcfQE93UvIGR2V35lPnH2clX-80oNEgkHP_uztDe1hXNO8DpICcCB6Vfz0YniIOtgGpvHls/s640/Meysan7a.jpg" title="Headed beyond.. beyond that "hill"." width="640" /></a></div>
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There were 3 sets of switchbacks I noticed, counting 17 switchbacks on the second set (I may or may not have missed or double counted some!), the trail levels out momentarily. Stepping over a teeny-tiny creek, the trail gives as a reprieve from the sun and all the climbing to an even clearing at about 2.5 miles from the the start.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja3KKNagitKQqIOVuDCtqsUkjr9uw32gQhtKB5GId1r5ORT_7qOT9ogrCoWH_BtFlWGTYaGTe645gNMiyFZ9cSmGPg4QynlZfDagWMkal3GmhyphenhyphenZpTzH__NitxzNyigepZXOgtM6p2asy4/s1600/Meysan8a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja3KKNagitKQqIOVuDCtqsUkjr9uw32gQhtKB5GId1r5ORT_7qOT9ogrCoWH_BtFlWGTYaGTe645gNMiyFZ9cSmGPg4QynlZfDagWMkal3GmhyphenhyphenZpTzH__NitxzNyigepZXOgtM6p2asy4/s640/Meysan8a.jpg" title="Small clearing.. flat spaces.. lake-less camp site, maybe?" width="640" /></a></div>
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Leaving the small clearing, the trail continues to climb through a shaded short switchbacks. Not long, the trail returns you to the open skies and the ground beneath changes into a sandy trail. To which, by the way, sandy switchbacks are no fun! From below looking up, it's hard see where the trail goes unless you're right smack-dab about to turn on the next switchback.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRAsozC-4vLxzph1ZCi3MwAMKXAiUiUfOk8aAzIwXiblUzszmqGBwzTrtZO9l1d1X9Fiah6854jlSkq4g44NurIYRIlEzmZEeSCFUdgkNlukM10yPevM23lxIdi4MoEG44G6NelpqgfHM/s1600/Meysan9a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRAsozC-4vLxzph1ZCi3MwAMKXAiUiUfOk8aAzIwXiblUzszmqGBwzTrtZO9l1d1X9Fiah6854jlSkq4g44NurIYRIlEzmZEeSCFUdgkNlukM10yPevM23lxIdi4MoEG44G6NelpqgfHM/s640/Meysan9a.jpg" title="Sandy switchbacks.. spot the hiker!" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin7Hm3O31KBU-Glv2Syi9QHykls3jGOVVhwn4x8Y1D1OTIBIAG3LUiPhN95UG-xOc6vbxD_X9hlIKKLU49UCkS7jITMrj03Sv3cmv3_kmvIOEdUvCgh_84wpObb-7S14X2DGHbMJGFy4c/s1600/Meysan10a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin7Hm3O31KBU-Glv2Syi9QHykls3jGOVVhwn4x8Y1D1OTIBIAG3LUiPhN95UG-xOc6vbxD_X9hlIKKLU49UCkS7jITMrj03Sv3cmv3_kmvIOEdUvCgh_84wpObb-7S14X2DGHbMJGFy4c/s320/Meysan10a.jpg" title="One.. last.. push.. till rest!" width="240" /></a>At the top of the loose sandy switchbacks (sorry, didn't count them this time!), the last rocky short stretch of the trail finally takes you to the sign pointing to Grass Lake (camp!) and the trail to continue on to Camp Lake and Meysan Lake.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-SmcKNP9dKVkBEkS69nB4HFSPNyJtscrWj6iOZk2fTR2fVX1A6B0FokVmX8zR1MUx5NzigWAaaMUSFHZVM5mn6FrGLUheTrB1b5CpyODw4hjrIHpuVe6OW09NZ-2ks9twiHloLZFlYeI/s1600/Meysan11a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-SmcKNP9dKVkBEkS69nB4HFSPNyJtscrWj6iOZk2fTR2fVX1A6B0FokVmX8zR1MUx5NzigWAaaMUSFHZVM5mn6FrGLUheTrB1b5CpyODw4hjrIHpuVe6OW09NZ-2ks9twiHloLZFlYeI/s320/Meysan11a.jpg" title="GRass Lake to the left.. Camp and Meysan Lake to the right." width="320" /></a><br />
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You'll walk up to small pond on the left and cross a tributary to get to the main Grass Lake just beyond a clearing with small meadow patches and rocks. Good spot to camp.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE-Q8mydWlEhw3yWSQDZDck7iUEn_hmC6C9Wg5f2-FCTDPAHMFaKix5znNOTr4OHT0QmQH-IWRFSwoPgNJ4vYTkldpZ3jg93At8CjiYxvGvQzsV1Ic3p_F7Q85KDixDe0cpf8W2ikR-R4/s1600/Meysan12a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE-Q8mydWlEhw3yWSQDZDck7iUEn_hmC6C9Wg5f2-FCTDPAHMFaKix5znNOTr4OHT0QmQH-IWRFSwoPgNJ4vYTkldpZ3jg93At8CjiYxvGvQzsV1Ic3p_F7Q85KDixDe0cpf8W2ikR-R4/s640/Meysan12a.jpg" title="Small lake by Grass Lake." width="640" /></a></div>
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With Leave No Trace in mind, this is a good place to pitch up your tent. Be mindful, it can get windy in this bowl. We all had a restless night on our trip, with unreasonable fears of being Dorothy and Toto from inside our tents! The winds went on all night long and most likely dislocated a few rocks on a nearby slope and woke us up on an already restless night with a loud booming rock slide. Wake up call anyone?!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy7nmZ2JVhDgPo2Wcb-xPl7zKGklUfsJt4q8tszlXO11LUtSSjPc7MM-pQE7u-kuiBPDS3jTHN3W3dh81kvsa0p-aJ6Zhz_sFz2ErmYWUiHP9C-2390AFNpLfGvRKiZP9DwDjdsbIAz5s/s1600/Meysan13a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy7nmZ2JVhDgPo2Wcb-xPl7zKGklUfsJt4q8tszlXO11LUtSSjPc7MM-pQE7u-kuiBPDS3jTHN3W3dh81kvsa0p-aJ6Zhz_sFz2ErmYWUiHP9C-2390AFNpLfGvRKiZP9DwDjdsbIAz5s/s640/Meysan13a.jpg" title="Our water source for our stay." width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBkZDDdABtYFhuc4MjxJ6Ycjs6KQM1RBVhzhjiW6qXFXbaZWfjsBWbHeQDCVJ-dgYREHNv8DeUB8UB00V21NqVdB2Buz6pdKz3v2NTKrIpkc_AJgeWD_eugDEP_1-u8t-_fLK9dg9CgIY/s1600/Meysan14a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBkZDDdABtYFhuc4MjxJ6Ycjs6KQM1RBVhzhjiW6qXFXbaZWfjsBWbHeQDCVJ-dgYREHNv8DeUB8UB00V21NqVdB2Buz6pdKz3v2NTKrIpkc_AJgeWD_eugDEP_1-u8t-_fLK9dg9CgIY/s640/Meysan14a.jpg" title="At camp." width="640" /></a></div>
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Grass Lake is a good base camp to climb peaks in the surrounding area or to continue on to explore Camp and Meysan Lakes with a lighter load on your back.</div>
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We chilled at camp for the night, exhausted and our plans for a morning exploration were deterred by the prevailing winds from the night before and some dark rolling clouds fast approaching us, no thanks to the wind.</div>
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I'll be back for you, Meysan Lake. Just you.</div>
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Oshiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14465513929689702140noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441758913129244733.post-34905322248185243472015-05-29T15:47:00.001-07:002015-05-29T15:47:28.182-07:00The Toadstools - Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Utah"Don't know how you do,<br />
the <i>Hoodoo</i> (Voodoo)<br />
that you do.."<br />
- Salt N Pepa<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(Lyrics tweaked to feature this awesome formation in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Yes, my age might show a bit with my particular choice of artist to relate this.. Haha!)</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgZwB_n7FlWyWlgtwQvF6knBRI79XWqC4jE9JgdlUt8vhRCcQ5-K-S5wwjpi7TEEJd6ws_zowdbAYdzkLPc9pWjvP8Bbg13m1P_4L2kUH7ZuBYXCydjjaMu3SbMFlOuTf3evpfFDWxA8w/s1600/Toadstools1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgZwB_n7FlWyWlgtwQvF6knBRI79XWqC4jE9JgdlUt8vhRCcQ5-K-S5wwjpi7TEEJd6ws_zowdbAYdzkLPc9pWjvP8Bbg13m1P_4L2kUH7ZuBYXCydjjaMu3SbMFlOuTf3evpfFDWxA8w/s640/Toadstools1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<ul>
<li>1.5 miles (round trip)</li>
<li>Out and back</li>
<li>Exposed trail</li>
<li>Elevation: 100 feet (nothing significant to worry about)</li>
<li>Location: Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, UT</li>
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The Toadstools of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument (GSENM) is an easy hike to do. Less than a mile one way and with little elevation gained, this is an excellent add-on to your long list of things to-do in the area without having to scratch off anything.<br />
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The trail head is located along Highway 89 between mile markers 19 and 20 (but closer to Mile 19) or about 1 mile East of the Paria Contact Station. Be on the lookout for any parked cars, if there are any 'cause it does not get packed, or for a small man-made podium-like metal structure that houses the trail register. If you're headed in the direction of Page, AZ it will be on your left and if headed towards Kanab, UT it will be on your right. There is an ample spaced parking area as you turn off from the road. No need for some dirt road 4WD driving.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpIY7yoqWGk6c1sA1eRNBfr0p_99iHvh4WsALZP3PxJZfBrYgNxMHoDhhsjkNXretEr8eMjeJxrrLQERA9DDDQ-iffKkOxFRaJpyxJSTFH4nmpdpTOsDrr5SIU7GdTNvIqag1xriFkPjQ/s1600/Toadstools2-a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpIY7yoqWGk6c1sA1eRNBfr0p_99iHvh4WsALZP3PxJZfBrYgNxMHoDhhsjkNXretEr8eMjeJxrrLQERA9DDDQ-iffKkOxFRaJpyxJSTFH4nmpdpTOsDrr5SIU7GdTNvIqag1xriFkPjQ/s640/Toadstools2-a.jpg" title="The Toadstools Trail Head" width="640" /></a></div>
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The trail begins by the trail register, behind a fence and heads northward. The trail is easy to follow but should you find yourself losing the trail just follow the wash or riverbed looking path. It didn't have water when we visited but it the mud was soft showing previous water run-off. The trail runs along beside it, crisscrossing it a few times.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_SIEqlmrhXj_wC9Tg_OO8yAXzQWfROmKejvpp3UqieXRAHmyHPg21T3_hgEBuIFhD9Aje8PwWYrBYDQhJ8lKT8NT5C3eM-TsYnHR6L7O9AHUhvTap-bH2Fcm7UDnrSJ__CQtyXCpTngg/s1600/Toadstools3-a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_SIEqlmrhXj_wC9Tg_OO8yAXzQWfROmKejvpp3UqieXRAHmyHPg21T3_hgEBuIFhD9Aje8PwWYrBYDQhJ8lKT8NT5C3eM-TsYnHR6L7O9AHUhvTap-bH2Fcm7UDnrSJ__CQtyXCpTngg/s640/Toadstools3-a.jpg" title="Following the trail alongside a wash." width="640" /></a></div>
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There are trail markers along the way pointing which direction you need to go. Just keep an eye out for them.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8s6IWqIK_acbcCEolvbS3wrOvodbCaryRlp0HEPQLz98VNE_4-CL9gDJStwkBb7s5IqPAhQdrtBHVGefN3LK3Sb8cWimsl9xIKg2k7rKsZOikxYfyDs_LLHVZqqCwNC3Oz30SqopM7aY/s1600/Toadstools3-a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8s6IWqIK_acbcCEolvbS3wrOvodbCaryRlp0HEPQLz98VNE_4-CL9gDJStwkBb7s5IqPAhQdrtBHVGefN3LK3Sb8cWimsl9xIKg2k7rKsZOikxYfyDs_LLHVZqqCwNC3Oz30SqopM7aY/s400/Toadstools3-a.jpg" title="So which way is it.. left or straight??" width="300" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-ydrSjR0SvXCFbY_QrE4egD5WPTgCSsWfIbFBWi9syni5baGCcjp3QKfkT8AqLj2VUYlyZGQzUePPm7hurN9mkqqG6vTN-MhZkNtrqDWjjd7ZEeRzPTnfhaMcBQqZgM2p3h_mz8KxCMU/s1600/Toadstools5-a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-ydrSjR0SvXCFbY_QrE4egD5WPTgCSsWfIbFBWi9syni5baGCcjp3QKfkT8AqLj2VUYlyZGQzUePPm7hurN9mkqqG6vTN-MhZkNtrqDWjjd7ZEeRzPTnfhaMcBQqZgM2p3h_mz8KxCMU/s640/Toadstools5-a.jpg" title="Trail to the Toadstools.. not long now!" width="640" /></a></div>
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After a rain fall, watch out for muddy trails!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKBijBsQ7cIccQmIZ8mAyuo7KQWr_j6xaC-wHKxbBTQYAMYoZV1rTFW5jh6hjorGPhqExtsgWvfIJEmvd_Vs0FwGZ_9jHGO5eA_89fIQ_DN37qUQrGb8HZragXXg52orcJu0fqdQOZn6I/s1600/Toadstools6-a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKBijBsQ7cIccQmIZ8mAyuo7KQWr_j6xaC-wHKxbBTQYAMYoZV1rTFW5jh6hjorGPhqExtsgWvfIJEmvd_Vs0FwGZ_9jHGO5eA_89fIQ_DN37qUQrGb8HZragXXg52orcJu0fqdQOZn6I/s400/Toadstools6-a.jpg" title="Looks can be deceiving.. don't sink!" width="300" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTQsvevrp7paTjlnbWIT2EM0j8sZDVU-x2UnCMTkB3KjhxMpT7Kjc4GMuVXmqP2fXTDO26gKjdN9dm7uUWPIl6nwG4H5dXULpnrIkv2YHoD_oWv6CJELqwQO9W2OOrzym8OymVfDSY6Hw/s1600/Toadstools7-a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTQsvevrp7paTjlnbWIT2EM0j8sZDVU-x2UnCMTkB3KjhxMpT7Kjc4GMuVXmqP2fXTDO26gKjdN9dm7uUWPIl6nwG4H5dXULpnrIkv2YHoD_oWv6CJELqwQO9W2OOrzym8OymVfDSY6Hw/s640/Toadstools7-a.jpg" title="Signs along the trail to follow." width="640" /></a></div>
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The trail continues around a small hill before climbing up a bit with the ground changing from red soil to white. Not long after you'll see a glimpse of the towering red toadstool. You'll note the changes of ground hues, from red to white to red again.. then white again all the way to the towering plateau.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicc8MliL7zLwvntv2eyvmWm7SFoXCM2-lOcFYoZ-bgmaiJAqD19NV49YeZpgpldhFH9ojKvirGS5RHyaCDrsdnZpENEPfZjVBWbYWMZDfIJ42Z4q0nYbRisoJJhU6IGJpTT-6Cj0JOoA4/s1600/Toadstools8-a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicc8MliL7zLwvntv2eyvmWm7SFoXCM2-lOcFYoZ-bgmaiJAqD19NV49YeZpgpldhFH9ojKvirGS5RHyaCDrsdnZpENEPfZjVBWbYWMZDfIJ42Z4q0nYbRisoJJhU6IGJpTT-6Cj0JOoA4/s640/Toadstools8-a.jpg" title="Whaaa.. I thought there's no elevation gain?" width="640" /></a></div>
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Looking around, the landscape makes you think if you're still on Earth! Are we Mars? Is this a Moon hike? (shoutout to the moon hikers of #hikerchat!).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilX57QrmzlVwaDuq8511IYhwWIbrv-iVf-jKOif0KF5n4Lnr4aUh00OH4m9uNukUUTmm6fe8i7bJmdFtuKQQGcaZQC0PWppKapN-twwN2O7p0BMOIe39PrMcfJhvhZU3bBFoDP4QIWVYk/s1600/Toadstools9-a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilX57QrmzlVwaDuq8511IYhwWIbrv-iVf-jKOif0KF5n4Lnr4aUh00OH4m9uNukUUTmm6fe8i7bJmdFtuKQQGcaZQC0PWppKapN-twwN2O7p0BMOIe39PrMcfJhvhZU3bBFoDP4QIWVYk/s640/Toadstools9-a.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The trail continues on past the tall red toadstool with more toadstool hoodoos, red and white, to explore around.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOrQfIVKXblJt_df6pV_n37shVvDU7VHhDXVGUTTTFsrwqEvUn95bbwez28mwkPSjBx6BIGAerEEmZHMuxQPTByJKwqgRqEYWhAuxrP2GyRWZ4n5u8AjLvT1DqI03yZC41SfYHTFTrum4/s1600/Toadstools10-a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOrQfIVKXblJt_df6pV_n37shVvDU7VHhDXVGUTTTFsrwqEvUn95bbwez28mwkPSjBx6BIGAerEEmZHMuxQPTByJKwqgRqEYWhAuxrP2GyRWZ4n5u8AjLvT1DqI03yZC41SfYHTFTrum4/s640/Toadstools10-a.jpg" title="purple flowers!" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4zzF6R9McSoVlS-gXuHJp1awzZxxCruDegk0Sr39F_YJICXn3VZtXLfoiyhO2XuK3PlsPUd7U9FlGsm7m0qjUmq6ovm3T91b-HQeY3suxCPeLhyKi_b6db7Xo9-bfTLXrGrUroLwmEiM/s1600/Toadstools11-a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4zzF6R9McSoVlS-gXuHJp1awzZxxCruDegk0Sr39F_YJICXn3VZtXLfoiyhO2XuK3PlsPUd7U9FlGsm7m0qjUmq6ovm3T91b-HQeY3suxCPeLhyKi_b6db7Xo9-bfTLXrGrUroLwmEiM/s400/Toadstools11-a.jpg" title="I see a camel resting.. what do you see?" width="300" /></a></div>
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<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAcqdKH1NbKB5X_icr2O0IkTvnQf7UAdKmlAnnxiG26fyY0bmiw4CtbG7eRzacQXSbZreM0NQsyBnCr8NFQO9JV43vb4gF4Q7cwMBMx7O9uugexzcTQ8Av8iQyCfHWiH8dvu6WmPHycCY/s1600/Toadstools12-a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAcqdKH1NbKB5X_icr2O0IkTvnQf7UAdKmlAnnxiG26fyY0bmiw4CtbG7eRzacQXSbZreM0NQsyBnCr8NFQO9JV43vb4gF4Q7cwMBMx7O9uugexzcTQ8Av8iQyCfHWiH8dvu6WmPHycCY/s640/Toadstools12-a.jpg" title="From the Toadstool looking down." width="640" /></a></div>
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We visited during a wet weather witnessed small soil crusts fall from a toadstool and heard echoes of huge chunks falling off somewhere in the area. We couldn't find where it was. It was an eerie experience, as we were the only ones exploring around (there were just 4 of us).</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq2DpUSolbI85nXg5TWuk9kR5NATGPsrWe6qWuzPAvKPxsnr6I8TGeXBT8Nh6zeLAKGkRgl0LBbN2bRZLiuelqqKxiczUiyYXWS2w1cK1u2XcNibS3wLh73ATbo6yPMceKAq_WUmUxIzI/s1600/Toadstools13-a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq2DpUSolbI85nXg5TWuk9kR5NATGPsrWe6qWuzPAvKPxsnr6I8TGeXBT8Nh6zeLAKGkRgl0LBbN2bRZLiuelqqKxiczUiyYXWS2w1cK1u2XcNibS3wLh73ATbo6yPMceKAq_WUmUxIzI/s640/Toadstools13-a.jpg" title="More toadstools!" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCBLH1iuOyfzDJfPyTXNGkpSDqEYSv_nUkN-uZZLoPHcq8bWNXON0GCoc5GUdNvteuaQARGj6TPMOmANMJ2Psy_ozeNHx2fyK27yleCPvZU8sG1G2A2DzraF-k8oOn4b0DzIErGpeXBdg/s1600/Toadstools14-a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCBLH1iuOyfzDJfPyTXNGkpSDqEYSv_nUkN-uZZLoPHcq8bWNXON0GCoc5GUdNvteuaQARGj6TPMOmANMJ2Psy_ozeNHx2fyK27yleCPvZU8sG1G2A2DzraF-k8oOn4b0DzIErGpeXBdg/s640/Toadstools14-a.jpg" title="Huge mushrooms!" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6Bphe05WONfcLYz63Qrgy0hfvDlw6GznnxkMaNFyA9cNX_i6HzawcztkQ4TzFK9zweRqy4OFLi2FmFac4_1odB8BfYxjgc52pdgmibFRc5zBV5mbxe2flYNveil_mhWwm6KT876U6T6M/s1600/Toadstools15-a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6Bphe05WONfcLYz63Qrgy0hfvDlw6GznnxkMaNFyA9cNX_i6HzawcztkQ4TzFK9zweRqy4OFLi2FmFac4_1odB8BfYxjgc52pdgmibFRc5zBV5mbxe2flYNveil_mhWwm6KT876U6T6M/s640/Toadstools15-a.jpg" title="A pano of the toadstools looking south." width="640" /></a></div>
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To head back to the parking lot is to just follow the same trail heading in to the Toadstools. And like any hike or trip, the going back part seems to always be so much shorter.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi771BqF6jFsjDXRRCURfWL8129FlVrQD69akTWICpRNwKItVNpmGIpdB4kvnuZm1rKKhSgII8rlm-wm5rEQpU5ZrzMIrzWMOErQf9KnxAWSmak_O0cwmrnuOyjkWsrNR2Fy1FyqWHTlRA/s1600/Toadstools16-a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi771BqF6jFsjDXRRCURfWL8129FlVrQD69akTWICpRNwKItVNpmGIpdB4kvnuZm1rKKhSgII8rlm-wm5rEQpU5ZrzMIrzWMOErQf9KnxAWSmak_O0cwmrnuOyjkWsrNR2Fy1FyqWHTlRA/s640/Toadstools16-a.jpg" title="Utah has awesome landscapes!" width="640" /></a></div>
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On the way back, we did stumble on path that looks to be the making of a trail that heads towards the eastern direction. Probably created by another water run off from the recent rain falls. Plants were growing in the middle of the it, but the path was clear. We only followed it a little bit realizing it was heading too much to the east of where are car is supposed to be before we decided to abandon and turn around then head back the way we came. We still had more Utah explorations to attempt.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0rGyczYfcpbuBTOBW2wjZX6IXruS6W7CDyUWEoudpFk3uXv4P0AXZ2cdTjd3wFFWjdeTAa6DMy51d2SEOJ54mY9WU5ZgAFJDHd9aKRg5QdbeoNY_rd0EbXwFyyZuliVoCsy5hwwivq0Y/s1600/Toadstools17-a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0rGyczYfcpbuBTOBW2wjZX6IXruS6W7CDyUWEoudpFk3uXv4P0AXZ2cdTjd3wFFWjdeTAa6DMy51d2SEOJ54mY9WU5ZgAFJDHd9aKRg5QdbeoNY_rd0EbXwFyyZuliVoCsy5hwwivq0Y/s200/Toadstools17-a.jpg" title="Signing the register!" width="200" /></a></div>
Back at the trail head, don't forget to sign the trail register! If you haven't yet at the start of the trail.</div>
Oshiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14465513929689702140noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441758913129244733.post-76999362439881925062015-05-26T13:57:00.001-07:002015-05-26T15:51:56.949-07:00Horseshoe Bend - Page, AZ<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMxwcBen42Gpg559YrEcL5ftdvAdWRX5FVVlgsuxW39VfktUFjzMPMsmIWVdhCY9se8JBeadw7ZegKodEVcWs3JF8Es1errWaE7s-QeCv6WOL0kMkXdMiz_97UkgJoPBV2btiZIEOWvOo/s1600/horseshoebend1-ab.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img alt="Arizona" border="0" height="353" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMxwcBen42Gpg559YrEcL5ftdvAdWRX5FVVlgsuxW39VfktUFjzMPMsmIWVdhCY9se8JBeadw7ZegKodEVcWs3JF8Es1errWaE7s-QeCv6WOL0kMkXdMiz_97UkgJoPBV2btiZIEOWvOo/s640/horseshoebend1-ab.jpg" title="Horseshoe Bend in Page, AZ" width="640" /></a></div>
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<ul>
<li>1.5 miles (round trip)</li>
<li>Out and back</li>
<li>Exposed and Sandy Trail</li>
<li>Closest city: Page, AZ</li>
<li>Coordinates: 36.8794° N, 111.5139° W</li>
<li>Weather link: <a href="http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lon=-111.50665&lat=36.87675#.VWSyQ09Viko" target="_blank">Horseshoe Bend Forecast</a></li>
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You've seen the photos.. on the web, a random postcard, a book.. or just somewhere but can't remember where.. but you've seen it. Admired it. Longed to visit the place and see it with your own eyes. But where is it?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZlBzG3hFlI-FePbAU6TWX56gb91U7vp3X22K2jJUrxwfPtgocNymAI1bXcGV-t9tOVy84LU0aXITFwzoK3FATD9znpHdDVbK1tSAjB5_j2yuGbo3UUHn23Rlg4yuegni_tVt7GOc6cS0/s1600/horseshoebend3-a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZlBzG3hFlI-FePbAU6TWX56gb91U7vp3X22K2jJUrxwfPtgocNymAI1bXcGV-t9tOVy84LU0aXITFwzoK3FATD9znpHdDVbK1tSAjB5_j2yuGbo3UUHn23Rlg4yuegni_tVt7GOc6cS0/s200/horseshoebend3-a.jpg" title="Sign off of Highway 89." width="200" /></a></div>
The Horseshoe Bend is located close to the city of Page, AZ. It is about a couple of miles south of the city along Highway 89. On this trip, we were coming from the town of Kanab in Southwest Utah. It was approximately a 75 mile drive on Highway 89S, an hour's worth of travel. A sign will come up on the right, in case the massive amount of cars parked on the shoulder don't give it away.<br />
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Enter the road past the sign to get to the ample spaced parking lot meant for the Horseshoe Bend overlook visitors. If you're visiting on a Holiday weekend, prepare for a crowd.<br />
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This hike is short and easy with a huge pay off, hence its popularity. You'll see every type of people visiting, from well prepared hikers to flip flop and wedge shoes wearing folks. Don't be discouraged by the crowd, to stand at the edge of the cliff and see the view is well worth the short moment of sacrifice of a solitude hike.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm0mDbaQbc5hN2sIA4g2ZnID-SuCEeQi_ngPufm5X3gpSMRm9Kbbpys5Y3rZPztmcQ11L_RVJ2gE1DL3s0Btm1IzM05ldFyuTaXacdDZCNmzKiFETXFC0PKzinCzYUjiFzjUZ6qG8AfIo/s1600/horseshoebend4-a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm0mDbaQbc5hN2sIA4g2ZnID-SuCEeQi_ngPufm5X3gpSMRm9Kbbpys5Y3rZPztmcQ11L_RVJ2gE1DL3s0Btm1IzM05ldFyuTaXacdDZCNmzKiFETXFC0PKzinCzYUjiFzjUZ6qG8AfIo/s640/horseshoebend4-a.jpg" title="Know before you go!" width="640" /></a>The trail starts at the end of the parking lot by a sign warning hikers to be careful and a reminder that there are no rails at the edge of the cliff! Begin with a gradual walk up a small hill.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzz4z_qVRZgSmKvFz1X18sCnrwtj28JrMmX46aRThXyq5-44rQTyHjUCYIE3qCuGt7CF8DWlOc6MB4JQDPAeP_PehPY7hcPjy-5KbWkTtSvdzH4TdenKcCULq5tQNEnWV8uEE-tAWF43o/s1600/horseshoebend2-a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzz4z_qVRZgSmKvFz1X18sCnrwtj28JrMmX46aRThXyq5-44rQTyHjUCYIE3qCuGt7CF8DWlOc6MB4JQDPAeP_PehPY7hcPjy-5KbWkTtSvdzH4TdenKcCULq5tQNEnWV8uEE-tAWF43o/s320/horseshoebend2-a.jpg" title="Please stay on the trail." width="320" /></a></div>
The trail offers no shade. So best be prepared with your sunscreen and hat. And if the weather is a bit wonky, drag along that poncho or rain jacket. It may be just a short hike, but who knows how long you will want to stay out there... by the edge... just mindlessly staring at nature's beautiful handiwork.<br />
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We visited on a day with scattered rain showers on the forecast, a burst of rain poured hard but short and still completely drenched a few visitors who didn't make a run from the rain.<br />
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At the top of the hill, there are a few benches scattered around and a small gazebo on the right, should you need a quick shelter from the sun or a pelting short burst of desert rain. From here, the trail starts to descend offering you views of the visitors milling around by the cliffs edge, selfie-sticks and all.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLewa562K8c-t0wQ2gQ6ZXbMaAA5RY39FL06O8l-RMG_mWZpykEwcQy3N7JBJ9PbHibuCfrUMAhoHWw2FYZJo8NDXVCOnEUt5rK4xduJwC9VavJCYKFZOJCs3LWGhiwmwiqUEUmK2KY7U/s1600/horseshoebend5-a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLewa562K8c-t0wQ2gQ6ZXbMaAA5RY39FL06O8l-RMG_mWZpykEwcQy3N7JBJ9PbHibuCfrUMAhoHWw2FYZJo8NDXVCOnEUt5rK4xduJwC9VavJCYKFZOJCs3LWGhiwmwiqUEUmK2KY7U/s640/horseshoebend5-a.jpg" title="Looking towards the cliff that overlooks the Horseshoe Bend." width="640" /></a></div>
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The best spot for the view? Anywhere. Find an open space and set yourself for a photo op then move to a different spot and repeat. Every spot you choose will yield to a good photo! The Colorado River that flows and carved this 270 degree horseshoe shape made that beautiful and amazing scene to photograph possible. Now for having a solo photo without any unsuspecting photobombers? Well.. just time your shots accordingly and be polite to other visitors!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1TJA32tbIVoh8C8eR4pZ6kBqWjck3XxBRpLLieBGWviCxUTAiBUd5ilh071SWcWyYhnbM1XcKR_mOAzqa6kbbK3dbUY215QsWb-Avp1Ku_XpENAEJrHnauQ-jKKPvKIO-Upb_HUueK0g/s1600/horseshoebend6-a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Karina and Oshie watching the Colorado River" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1TJA32tbIVoh8C8eR4pZ6kBqWjck3XxBRpLLieBGWviCxUTAiBUd5ilh071SWcWyYhnbM1XcKR_mOAzqa6kbbK3dbUY215QsWb-Avp1Ku_XpENAEJrHnauQ-jKKPvKIO-Upb_HUueK0g/s640/horseshoebend6-a.jpg" title="The End!" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />Oshiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14465513929689702140noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441758913129244733.post-29822670660730433992015-03-12T13:29:00.001-07:002015-03-16T15:42:44.529-07:00The High Sierra Trail - Sequoia National Park to Inyo National Forest<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiMiWJxF71yxKSz7YSgoVoonMr4P5EM6w_J49w666yhUU_M2KuCfySNnVZ89NpfjYfpPum9eAFWFZNTLefX0n3hQphYo69_ekyUtZyoW0Y6RC9pmrv0qGONxd3A8ZGVhv5aFyw1boyrxE/s1600/HSTHeader-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiMiWJxF71yxKSz7YSgoVoonMr4P5EM6w_J49w666yhUU_M2KuCfySNnVZ89NpfjYfpPum9eAFWFZNTLefX0n3hQphYo69_ekyUtZyoW0Y6RC9pmrv0qGONxd3A8ZGVhv5aFyw1boyrxE/s1600/HSTHeader-1.jpg" height="170" title="Headed towards Guitar Lake" width="640" /></a></div>
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The High Sierra Trail traverses the Great Western Divide from West to East. Officially, the trail starts from the front country of Sequoia National Park at Crescent Meadow and ends at the summit of Mount Whitney, about some odd 60 miles. Officially. Then connect the trail to the Whitney Trail and add about 11 miles to exit on the east, at Whitney Portal. Making this trip a total of 71 miles (we logged in about 74.3 miles).</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Kp8_gN99bAbFefFs_awh-XiPJPGbcCqwqzsTPfdLAJL7orGFhbkTZ7eHLL6ZKqckl0fb9HFawbIMEgIUNsIEbMVoYHFWv0TcsNChaCUuKhW4aKbxIT4WUnu4hjSmfFdmTqM_aL_J-aI/s1600/HST37.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Kp8_gN99bAbFefFs_awh-XiPJPGbcCqwqzsTPfdLAJL7orGFhbkTZ7eHLL6ZKqckl0fb9HFawbIMEgIUNsIEbMVoYHFWv0TcsNChaCUuKhW4aKbxIT4WUnu4hjSmfFdmTqM_aL_J-aI/s1600/HST37.1.jpg" height="480" title="Our visit at Precipice Lake" width="640" /></a></div>
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I don't remember the exact moment that the High Sierra Trail came across my radar. It was some-some years ago stumbling on a colored picture in the <i>intarwebs</i> of this beautifully <i>multi colored</i> lake. The photo was not labeled but thank you, Google Image! It was the esteemed Precipice Lake. Ironically, made famous by a <i>black and white</i> photograph by Ansel Adams, <i>(Frozen Lake and Cliffs, The Sierra Nevada, Sequoia National Park, California 1932)</i>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTzD11eI9ukVfF34xTmu3YEUv4XZkPcHVqGuAWyVnevXGc2bHfNCb1nwDPozV-dfzuXuIqit5v-GbblUjEOlkfeZTWkWTUiUdGu3ZgwNST0YMHe07pKS9hf1OWy3lUE4mJcV6HIemHL8c/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTzD11eI9ukVfF34xTmu3YEUv4XZkPcHVqGuAWyVnevXGc2bHfNCb1nwDPozV-dfzuXuIqit5v-GbblUjEOlkfeZTWkWTUiUdGu3ZgwNST0YMHe07pKS9hf1OWy3lUE4mJcV6HIemHL8c/s1600/photo+3.JPG" height="200" width="150" /></a></div>
Armed by my ever reliable map of the entire Sequoia nad Kings Canyon National Park, I zeroed in on Precipice Lake. Tracing the trail to get there, I hovered further past the lake and noticed to be following a high lighted trail labeled as the High Sierra Trail. Eyes widened when my finger arrived at the end of the trail, an opportunity to summit the highest peak in the lower 48 states, Mount Whitney! A beautiful lake, a well known peak and undoubtedly a potentially gorgeous hike.. and be able to make it in one swoop of a trip. Yes, I'd like a piece of that!<br />
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<h3>
High Sierra Trail, why do it?</h3>
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<h4>
<i>Want to summit Mount Whitney but the permit lottery system just doesn't appeal to you?</i></h4>
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Permit lottery system stresses me out, haha. Probably why this hiker still has not gone to Half Dome. I know, I know.. it is an iconic hiking thing. I like hiking for its simplicity. And the lottery system is not. But I guess it is a necessary evil to control the wilderness traffic in certain areas.<br />
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The HST provides an entry (there are lots!) to access to the Whitney Zone without going through the Whitney lottery.<br />
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<i>You've ogled at photos, seen Mile.. Mile And A Half repeatedly, squinted at blogs.. but taking 3 weeks to take on a John Muir Trail thru-hike is just not feasible anytime soon?</i></h4>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghC2RpYd83JE5CvR3eKnAwSsQAXlY0A7b5Hh5ssQY-fWxzDTfPjPhB9bTtuHQBSsSE4maLoW0Uk116YZ6JjzqKraE0GfTzJysdTbnlXhnzYocKVrMhjWY3P4QhY8Kyt2Qp6tmUdCtcHHY/s1600/HSTTree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghC2RpYd83JE5CvR3eKnAwSsQAXlY0A7b5Hh5ssQY-fWxzDTfPjPhB9bTtuHQBSsSE4maLoW0Uk116YZ6JjzqKraE0GfTzJysdTbnlXhnzYocKVrMhjWY3P4QhY8Kyt2Qp6tmUdCtcHHY/s1600/HSTTree.jpg" height="320" title="Heading to Moraine Lake" width="240" /></a></div>
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If you have a regular day job (like me!), taking 3 weeks off is not easy (plus add more days for logistics, pick up, drop off, acclimating, etc.). There are lots to consider before embarking on such time away from work, including paid time offs. I've read somewhere once; "The time you don't work during your trip is the most expensive part of the trip". Plus that's time away from family. Unless, they're your JMT hike buddies!<br />
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Depending on how you want to stretch your own HST trip, this can be done in 8 days, 7 nights. If you have a Monday-Friday work schedule, here's a quick itinerary fix:Take Saturday to acclimate, Sunday as jump off day and the following Sunday to end a trip. This way you technically loose just 5 days of work.<br />
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<h4>
<i>Or maybe because it is just there. Calling you. Beckoning you.</i></h4>
<i><br /></i>Maybe you're just looking for an epic trip. Then.. <i>ta-dah</i>! This is it! Lakes, hot springs, meadows, peaks.. you can't go wrong on this trip!<br />
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<h3>
Permit Application</h3>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2A5CbXNXF4YWHOCNcriiE8aCsdvmpMzfAxDcdyHCRn6Yv2J2qOQOk2Aknznz_3P6grkFDaOCHjGu16tCbDmeNh7LCy08uX_oX_gs_Oe6Jb85KuPzWE9SIwfXDHuOuZWqa3wGibldmsv8/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2A5CbXNXF4YWHOCNcriiE8aCsdvmpMzfAxDcdyHCRn6Yv2J2qOQOk2Aknznz_3P6grkFDaOCHjGu16tCbDmeNh7LCy08uX_oX_gs_Oe6Jb85KuPzWE9SIwfXDHuOuZWqa3wGibldmsv8/s1600/photo.JPG" height="200" title="High Sierra Trail permit application" width="150" /></a></div>
Scouring the internet with information and trip reports for the High Sierra Trail gave the impression of its unpopularity. But that was deceiving. The official starting point does receive its quota.</div>
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The HST officially (and popularly) starts at Crescent Meadow (High Sierra on the drop down menu on the permit application) located in the Giant Forest area of Sequoia National Park.</div>
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But an alternative starting point, if your dates are not flexible, is at the Alta Trailhead in the Wolverton Area. Excellent opportunity to do a side trip on the Lakes Trail or Alta Peak before meeting up with the High Sierra Trail.</div>
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Starting at either point does not differ much in terms of elevation or mileage, nor your permit pick up. Both starting points' permit pick up is at the Lodgepole Visitor Center. The Wilderness desk there opens at 7:00 a.m. till 3:30 p.m. Permits can be picked up the day before your entry date at 1:00 p.m. or the same day before 9:00 a.m. Make sure to let the wilderness office know if you're picking up after 9:00 a.m. of your entry date, or else it is tagged as a "no-show" and will be available for walk-ins.</div>
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Select Whitney Portal for the exit trail (unless you're doing this as an out-and-back.. hmm next trip, maybe?!) and you'll be good to go and summit Mount Whitney on this trip. No extra permit application for the summit.</div>
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Fill up the <a href="http://www.nps.gov/seki/planyourvisit/upload/2014-Wilderness-permit-application_20140411-2.pdf" target="_blank">permit</a> from the NPS website, follow the instructions and mail or fax it along with your check or credit/debit card payment of $15.00 for the permit (number of days and persons included in fee). Your confirmation will be sent via email. Yes, it's email now. I was constantly checking our mailbox waiting for that lovely envelope from NPS only to find out that my inbox has been babysitting it and probably snickering at me, too!</div>
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<h3>
Weather</h3>
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Prepare for any weather changes. Check the weather even up to the last minute of your trip, before you leave your home, before you lose that last cell phone signal, and ask the wilderness desk when you pick up your permit.</div>
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Generally, best time to visit is in the Summer months. However, on some good snow years, high elevations would still have snow as late as July. We went during one of California's drought year, first week of August 2014. We didn't see any patches of snow, but we got rain and hail.</div>
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Here's a link via NOAA's website for the weather in the Moro Rock and Crescent Meadow area: <a href="http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lon=-118.75088&lat=36.56033#.VQC4MPnF9n8" target="_blank">HST Weather</a>.</div>
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<h3>
Food Storage</h3>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj27EmoCV98h0wluluc1A1fuTL70mEjggdUu2IWMCMsLTYdiXih77pgeI3fhzSo2W3935vvx9ySpUoZqvrBxEsyEM5gtSz4bu5DJDu5Om4XgTwujGNiKpghBlFjrRpiCDVIqfOPBKCg8II/s1600/HSTBearCan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj27EmoCV98h0wluluc1A1fuTL70mEjggdUu2IWMCMsLTYdiXih77pgeI3fhzSo2W3935vvx9ySpUoZqvrBxEsyEM5gtSz4bu5DJDu5Om4XgTwujGNiKpghBlFjrRpiCDVIqfOPBKCg8II/s1600/HSTBearCan.jpg" height="150" title="Bear Vault BV500 and BV450" width="200" /></a></div>
Most of the camp sites we picked for our trip itinerary has bear boxes or food lockers. The ranger issuing us the permit even told us that we may opt to leave our bear canisters to save weight. However, having our own food storage gives us the freedom to not rely camping on where the food lockers are located (such as what happened on <a href="http://hikeeatcamp.blogspot.com/2015/01/high-sierra-trail-part-5-kern-hot.html" target="_blank">Day 5</a>!).</div>
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If you do not own one (yet!), bear canisters can be rented at the Lodgepole Visitor Center, your local REI or Bearikade rents their product on their website.</div>
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<h3>
Getting There and Logistics</h3>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXMxlhJXjlCKWnajOU2YCkV21tK7XOH4lWNqt89Wb5J_8SYG43HlDQGmmoYb6CYENhcU2YF-D_D1CYHoQG49-957hTg58A_qiBsCvpotK95OOUnA4LB4B8zqU2eoZauQPW1Le9IatAiUw/s1600/HSTAshMtn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXMxlhJXjlCKWnajOU2YCkV21tK7XOH4lWNqt89Wb5J_8SYG43HlDQGmmoYb6CYENhcU2YF-D_D1CYHoQG49-957hTg58A_qiBsCvpotK95OOUnA4LB4B8zqU2eoZauQPW1Le9IatAiUw/s1600/HSTAshMtn.jpg" height="240" title="Ash Mountain Entrance - Sequoia National Park" width="320" /></a></div>
The High Sierra Trail starts in the front country of Sequoia National Park, California. There are 2 entrances to the park. From Southern California the Ash Mountain Entrance coming from the city of Visalia comes up first via SR-198. The other entrance is the Big Stump Entrance from the city of Fresno via SR-180, which can take you to Kings Canyon National Park (left at the "Y") and Sequoia National Park (right at the "Y") upon entering and paying your park dues.</div>
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Park dues are $20.00 per (private) vehicle, all passengers included and it is valid for 7 days upon your entrance. Annual Sequoia and Kings Canyon Park fees are at $30.00. or if you are a National Park junkie (like us!), America the Beautiful Pass is $80.00 valid for a year in <i>all</i> National Parks. Still cheaper than a Disneyland Pass!</div>
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The tricky part of a thru-hike is the logistics, since you will be starting from one end and finishing in another. Coordinating skills, trust in soliciting free rides or big $$$ to rent shuttles play in part here.</div>
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We opted for soliciting free rides. We were dropped off at our starting point with bribes of a good time, camp fires and a 5 billion star stay. Yeah, thank goodness he was family enough to accept such bribes! And we coordinated a pick up at the end with bribes of love and affection. Yup, family, too!</div>
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During the Summer peak season, the road to Moro Rock/Crescent Meadow is closed to private vehicles, only accessible by the<a href="http://www.nps.gov/seki/planyourvisit/parktransit.htm" target="_blank"> park's free shuttle</a> that stops at the Giant Forest Museum.<br />
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<h3>
Our Itinerary</h3>
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<i>** For reference on the photos on the state of the trail: Our trip was on August 3-10, 2014.</i><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://hikeeatcamp.blogspot.com/2014/11/high-sierra-trail-part-1-lodgepole.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNK5QKWGAPdxgtdZEpS8d6Rsd9VDZ4bUeFI0vEKqNyz2Xmo2eFxnW8-DW-aKW5Yyp_c2otxQbuLlDpRKCJn0BmmMimCoVddasComsxDQYCqRGG5HqaP5cQ11dxGFJVeHkMA0HwQsyzZrc/s1600/HST6.jpg" height="132" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="http://hikeeatcamp.blogspot.com/2014/11/high-sierra-trail-part-1-lodgepole.html" target="_blank">HST Day Zero and 1 - Lodgepole to Wolverton to Buck Creek Crossing</a><br />
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<a href="http://hikeeatcamp.blogspot.com/2014/11/high-sierra-trail-part-2-buck-creek.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1uKYjljkprLA1QFRKvYjpONGMMlYD9UNoSJ6nedozTQ8Vx1j3QbyaZx0xJRUz7VEv9ccF7MDrB8NXWPJJNVxFIIAFG7pqeA6Dkd3q_rj-B0_bvSN72CBJYyA9si1TSqutLVu6ZYVJRKc/s1600/HST25.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="http://hikeeatcamp.blogspot.com/2014/11/high-sierra-trail-part-2-buck-creek.html" target="_blank">HST Day 2 - Buck Creek Crossing to Big Hamilton Lake</a><br />
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<a href="http://hikeeatcamp.blogspot.com/2014/12/high-sierra-trail-part-3-big-hamilton.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5qmTdbtP5UeM8NYzBIEHeQC3AnrfYwMEDxWu135YufXifhyphenhyphen7ePIpLRW7stI2PUBWYRN-GRgjCDUksNU5A4csDEnfQf6V-msmFOmC7r-QAT1kcERXdATi13Mgesr4y7OWjsunUixKx7pI/s1600/HST31.1.jpg" height="132" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="http://hikeeatcamp.blogspot.com/2014/12/high-sierra-trail-part-3-big-hamilton.html" target="_blank">HST Day 3 - Big Hamilton Lake to Big Arroyo Junction</a><br />
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<a href="http://hikeeatcamp.blogspot.com/2015/01/high-sierra-trail-part-4-big-arroyo.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRH3jaddf1_UMc1nyijbDbdL6eXW7u5-_2hK-ayHANeYAPHDgKsFAWN33fz6YS1xStaGznoGg6FOfcEAl1CHHdWfyVtckq6jURiI5dze7G7nMclqc7oxN4SMLFmnJ7TFqPa0KvLQ5mu1Y/s1600/HST51-1.jpg" height="143" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="http://hikeeatcamp.blogspot.com/2015/01/high-sierra-trail-part-4-big-arroyo.html" target="_blank">HST Day 4 - Big Arroyo Junction to Kern Hot Springs</a><br />
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<a href="http://hikeeatcamp.blogspot.com/2015/01/high-sierra-trail-part-5-kern-hot.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqhzVozWq9Ce5LF0CYCvY1GPbvS9gHG5PlmrsNXAsHy3zpWi0sGbbvLBu74saCYnATS-eIhW1Olhy0stz78gLVt0zfpiuJ2YiBSYlod3FAcf27m7vawmOWgSsRxkGJqwF_DMX39-P9wZI/s1600/HST69-1.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="http://hikeeatcamp.blogspot.com/2015/01/high-sierra-trail-part-5-kern-hot.html" target="_blank">HST Day 5 - Kern Hot Springs to Wallace Creek</a><br />
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<a href="http://hikeeatcamp.blogspot.com/2015/02/WallaceCreekToGuitarLake.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIooEJ6lgGIgUkh_MTJWb8dTcSp84dVK8ePoy5VEW_M2070-_-c_MVWb_FyjCSo9OU0spT9BeSm7w65PWRGkMOUBxwPGnzeHAx1WZ28I_CjRV1e-THglWM-ayeczQmJnNg6QhqTVBZFR4/s1600/HST79-1.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://hikeeatcamp.blogspot.com/2015/02/WallaceCreekToGuitarLake.html" target="_blank">HST Day 6 - Wallace Creek to Guitar Lake</a><br />
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<a href="http://hikeeatcamp.blogspot.com/2015/02/HSTGuitarLakeToMtWhitney.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi39xqpQNvVc-poH2_vC5_DvM_xF4wUiCIRPv_o0E07HgwE5keZM_cM9AVzRZ3auRP1OabZygdge5l6pRuEpGzYmlOesWhWx_ubDqmkC2f0ez_msCjZ_GBy2s6pNNIhiiDE0Abv5MBAOA/s1600/HST88-1.jpg" height="121" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="http://hikeeatcamp.blogspot.com/2015/02/HSTGuitarLakeToMtWhitney.html" target="_blank">HST Day 7 - Whitney Summit Day! Guitar Lake to Trail Camp</a><br />
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<a href="http://hikeeatcamp.blogspot.com/2015/03/high-sierra-trail-part-8-trail-camp-to.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjihQqQKhdIt6DGjC4AhJA-AcZbED1xVLNdh4fW2QJICRA8sYouO3FOnTHCHSN4lfV3av84PucSk8xvg3kAmlhQdcS94B4TRcBgIiCW_pnOIU1_5rzzZQj7RpZpIGlQP__vM-gBewrw14Y/s1600/HST98-1.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="http://hikeeatcamp.blogspot.com/2015/03/high-sierra-trail-part-8-trail-camp-to.html" target="_blank">HST Day 8 - Trail Camp to Whitney Portal</a><br />
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<table class="tableizer-table">
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<tr class="tableizer-firstrow"><th>POINT/ LOCATION</th><th>ELEV OF LOC [IN FEET]</th><th>DISTANCE FROM LAST POINT</th><th>ELEV DIFF FROM EACH POINT</th><th>CAMP</th><th>MILE BET CAMPS</th><th>ELVATION DIFFERENCE FROM EACH LOCATION</th><th>NOTES</th></tr>
<tr><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>WOLVERTON/ ALTA TH</td><td>7,360</td><td>0.0</td><td>0</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>PEAR LAKE JUNCTION</td><td>8,070</td><td>1.6</td><td>710</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>PANTHER GAP</td><td>8,520</td><td>0.9</td><td>450</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>ALTA PEAK JUNCTION</td><td>8,940</td><td>0.9</td><td>420</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>BEAR BOX</td></tr>
<tr><td>MEHRTEN CREEK/ MEET HST</td><td>7,690</td><td>2.0</td><td>-1,250</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>BEAR BOX</td></tr>
<tr><td>NINE MILE CREEK</td><td>-</td><td>2.1</td><td>2.1</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>BEAR BOX</td></tr>
<tr><td>BUCK CREEK CROSSING</td><td>7,260</td><td>3.5</td><td>-430</td><td>X</td><td>11.0</td><td>-100</td><td>BEAR BOX</td></tr>
<tr><td>BEARPAW MEADOW</td><td>7,820</td><td>1.0</td><td>560</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>BEAR BOX</td></tr>
<tr><td>ELIZABETH PASS JUNCTION</td><td>7,400</td><td>1.5</td><td>-420</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>BIG HAMILTON LAKE</td><td>8,240</td><td>3.5</td><td>840</td><td>X</td><td>6.0</td><td>980</td><td>BEAR BOX</td></tr>
<tr><td>PRECIPICE LAKE</td><td>10,200</td><td>3.3</td><td>1,960</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>BIG ARROYO JUNCTION</td><td>9,560</td><td>3.2</td><td>-640</td><td>X</td><td>6.5</td><td>1,320</td><td>BEAR BOX</td></tr>
<tr><td>MORAINE LAKE** side trip</td><td>9,300</td><td>8.0</td><td>-260</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>BEAR BOX</td></tr>
<tr><td>UPPER FUNSTON MEADOW</td><td>7,300</td><td>4.0</td><td>-2,000</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>BEAR BOX</td></tr>
<tr><td>KERN HOT SPRING</td><td>6,880</td><td>2.3</td><td>-420</td><td>X</td><td>14.3</td><td>-420</td><td>BEAR BOX</td></tr>
<tr><td>JUNCTION MEADOW</td><td>8,080</td><td>8.0</td><td>1,200</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>BEAR BOX</td></tr>
<tr><td>WALLACE CREEK JUNCTION</td><td>10,405</td><td>4.1</td><td>2,325</td><td>X</td><td>12.1</td><td>3,525</td><td>BEAR BOX</td></tr>
<tr><td>CRABTREE RANGER STATION</td><td>10,700</td><td>4.2</td><td>295</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td>BEAR BOX</td></tr>
<tr><td>GUITAR LAKE</td><td>11,460</td><td>3.5</td><td>760</td><td>X</td><td>7.7</td><td>3,380</td><td>TIP: LEAVE AT 5 AM</td></tr>
<tr><td>MT. WHITNEY JUNCTION</td><td>13,450</td><td>2.5</td><td>1,990</td><td></td><td></td><td>1,990</td><td>SUMMIT DAY!</td></tr>
<tr><td>MOUNT WHITNEY SUMMIT </td><td>14,505</td><td>2.0</td><td>1,055</td><td></td><td></td><td>1,055</td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>MOUNT WHITNEY JUNCTION (DESCEND)</td><td>13,450</td><td>2.0</td><td>-1,055</td><td></td><td></td><td>-1,055</td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>TRAIL CAMP</td><td>12,040</td><td>2.2</td><td>-1,410</td><td>X</td><td>10.7</td><td></td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>OUTPOST CAMP</td><td>10,600</td><td>2.5</td><td>-1,440</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>LONE PINE LAKE</td><td>9,990</td><td>1.0</td><td>-610</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>WHITNEY PORTAL</td><td>8,340</td><td>2.5</td><td>-1,650</td><td>END!</td><td>6.0</td><td>-1,650</td><td>END!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Oshiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14465513929689702140noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441758913129244733.post-5188198277523569792015-03-05T09:47:00.002-08:002015-03-05T09:48:11.370-08:00High Sierra Trail Part 8 - Trail Camp to Whitney Portal<h4>
Day 8: (Last Day!) Trail Camp to Whitney Portal - 6 miles and 3,700 feet elevation loss</h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW_KVTYTvWE_2YlBDUYHIwdchosQXPiNUx6yCP49po1IdRzEHecQ_a2wsHTIM_FXBDK5ZCr9CeHroIb8c69bS-zEzHfTc_34DajUMw37y6-S1Tta_uLVv1yVHHFX0Gq2kX57fShVdy-wo/s1600/HSTDay8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW_KVTYTvWE_2YlBDUYHIwdchosQXPiNUx6yCP49po1IdRzEHecQ_a2wsHTIM_FXBDK5ZCr9CeHroIb8c69bS-zEzHfTc_34DajUMw37y6-S1Tta_uLVv1yVHHFX0Gq2kX57fShVdy-wo/s1600/HSTDay8.jpg" height="288" title="High Sierra Trail - Day 8 Elevation Profile" width="320" /></a></div>
Top o' tha mawnin', to yah! Seems an appropriate greeting enough coming from 12K feet and about to head down to 8K feet elevation.<br />
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Wish we can say we've had an undisturbed night's rest and only waking up to the sunshine trying to penetrate through our tents.<br />
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Sleep was intermittent for most of us. The busyness of Trail Camp does not end when light disappears, nor does it start when day light starts.<br />
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Clocked in the first hikers to startle at 3:00 a.m., with everyone's headlamps pointed at our tent. At first I thought it was a cause for alarm, but the moment I made the act to zip open the tent to see what's up, they finally found what they were looking for.. the pond to refill their water supply. Luckily, going back to sleep was never a problem for me. But take heed for the light sleepers!<br />
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IF you aren't being chased by pelting rain/hail to pitch your tent, strategize your camp spot. Keep clear from the only water source, unless you don't mind crunching footsteps constantly by your ear as you lay in your sleeping bag. Be wary for already existing spots declared by others as the bathroom - safe to say more than enough people are using the spot for you to be able to just ignore it. Signs of civilization is becoming apparent, means we're close to the end!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2gXO_gK37tvn3zLeBQLh7W1EqVpG-AwOzWRxYrUWLfUM1HhbCEQ78xgR7ONC36RbXjWkKGr9Lj4SScVmbsSQUOF6KQlMYk-dHNLQdsTt5Lt-Vrt25GRQ7Ho-rtNj-wDScHBjsmfPrqMo/s1600/HST93-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2gXO_gK37tvn3zLeBQLh7W1EqVpG-AwOzWRxYrUWLfUM1HhbCEQ78xgR7ONC36RbXjWkKGr9Lj4SScVmbsSQUOF6KQlMYk-dHNLQdsTt5Lt-Vrt25GRQ7Ho-rtNj-wDScHBjsmfPrqMo/s1600/HST93-1.jpg" height="358" title="Trail Camp" width="640" /></a></div>
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It was only 6 miles to go and all going downhill, we took our time to have breakfast and dry out our tents completely before packing everything. Then we started the trek down. Much as my knees hates it, I really do love going downhill. Suffice it to say, I'm looking forward to our hike.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe7xEfBGVaG6NGaREGroIo06-GJlnZNXQaM1y3okEqb5qptuRGGS3FQflI8qT4d6j_JjehdmLHUakM4HnKeeSVErejAzqOf3qvBVRPBmrpwkHRbaBxEmMGTlz4D9lXdbzQUvDdEyLKUGI/s1600/HST94-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe7xEfBGVaG6NGaREGroIo06-GJlnZNXQaM1y3okEqb5qptuRGGS3FQflI8qT4d6j_JjehdmLHUakM4HnKeeSVErejAzqOf3qvBVRPBmrpwkHRbaBxEmMGTlz4D9lXdbzQUvDdEyLKUGI/s1600/HST94-1.jpg" height="480" title="Czarina and Ryan from wayyyyy up there!" width="640" /></a></div>
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The trail is easy to follow despite that it is basically made up of rocks that.. just. Look. Alike. If you tend to be on lalaland while hiking (but then you shouldn't be anyways unless you don't mind rolling an ankle 'cause of a wrong footing) and by some unknown force feel like you've lost the trail, don't worry. The trail has enough foot traffic in both directions that other hikers can be used as landmarks!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRMiBgXMui1Pd6kQ4MzQh1VQki5zVia2rvIV_3OmUjMarNOOQxc0RWig-CXqUYKjUTuElko-TeU-15tZSEkU_9LIwokTRoDhb8HoNy55_dxaGoSdMZ96KEH8mUAzdQFCmbIRtNeE1qCBE/s1600/HST96-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRMiBgXMui1Pd6kQ4MzQh1VQki5zVia2rvIV_3OmUjMarNOOQxc0RWig-CXqUYKjUTuElko-TeU-15tZSEkU_9LIwokTRoDhb8HoNy55_dxaGoSdMZ96KEH8mUAzdQFCmbIRtNeE1qCBE/s1600/HST96-1.jpg" height="400" title="Trailside Meadow" width="300" /></a>To say the trail is steep is an understatement. We're just glad we're not the ones climbing up on it today. The trail is quite rocky or gravelly so, again, best to keep a presence of mind on where you step, safety first!<br />
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Continuing on coming down, a small patch of a meadow comes into view with a stream flowing in the middle. Such a picturesque scene that epitomizes water is life.<br />
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The trail is completely exposed from Trail Camp but trees started to appear as it approaches Mirror Lake. There is no camping at Mirror Lake, though it looked so inviting to make a quick jump in it, but I only took a few pictures and carried on. For the first time in a week, we had a set time that we needed to be somewhere: Whitney Portal, where Kari, if I know her all these years, would already be waiting for us long before our agreed meet up time (for which I'm glad so I won't have to wait for since 1 week away from her is my quota! Not a minute more than necessary!).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXrK2UTyPTVZm8Wr0D4KAfizsQoW7whNsU1is7pdZXuEyZLwnSa9aVcn_WQT4r6HVUICpMT65E4JZBHEFCxtMZTX9HRZ4Aksbjlq0WDhlPhd6_y6mWGempbs2TurYa8noeATUCEJmwqsc/s1600/HST97-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXrK2UTyPTVZm8Wr0D4KAfizsQoW7whNsU1is7pdZXuEyZLwnSa9aVcn_WQT4r6HVUICpMT65E4JZBHEFCxtMZTX9HRZ4Aksbjlq0WDhlPhd6_y6mWGempbs2TurYa8noeATUCEJmwqsc/s1600/HST97-1.jpg" height="480" title="Mirror Lake" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht51hUvdlFi1y3Uzzv9tOTGvVNsavCdzjKytnIisDnan98BKMA2FCjKuXBvFV7vhq9lAWwMwUCnQJ3tSABBNFd-XrqbZBUyaSjOer3CnnEXDbELoCRKxEFDvu2awzwN1e6OCp9Fpddag4/s1600/HST98-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht51hUvdlFi1y3Uzzv9tOTGvVNsavCdzjKytnIisDnan98BKMA2FCjKuXBvFV7vhq9lAWwMwUCnQJ3tSABBNFd-XrqbZBUyaSjOer3CnnEXDbELoCRKxEFDvu2awzwN1e6OCp9Fpddag4/s1600/HST98-1.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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Not long after passing Mirror Lake, the trail leads to Outpost Camp, another area along the Whitney Trail where established camp sites are concentrated in. There were several campers breaking up camp when we passed, including the Italian couple we met since Precipice Lake (5 days ago!).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy8f7Rqjkol7MyK-qXHsato2zGz13nYtY5PJovTWNFXCp9dZ_Hesnb1LAX3zaNJqJ9zK3GXWEgnhSQd7QzNC7H-x_qx4n4gYPyBVoHSYiv5l8oaUGxb1v1FpcwOkUcdoqNIqKSMgsuHrM/s1600/HST99-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy8f7Rqjkol7MyK-qXHsato2zGz13nYtY5PJovTWNFXCp9dZ_Hesnb1LAX3zaNJqJ9zK3GXWEgnhSQd7QzNC7H-x_qx4n4gYPyBVoHSYiv5l8oaUGxb1v1FpcwOkUcdoqNIqKSMgsuHrM/s1600/HST99-1.jpg" height="480" title="Trail around the Outpost Camp area." width="640" /></a></div>
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The trail has more shade now, crosses a couple of small streams and then a mile more later, finally took us out of the Whitney Zone, a.k.a. <i>The No Wag Bag Zone!</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf6gDrg_GuBqjIM6WXk_TBNvBu4x6j1HfT4quSLZ4uTCeDW6ymvNYmFecWYuaLTNxXwMkdF0lue-vyrnDXudIQzEthAhLKbB8o93kCZZ4dmncS4BAYvIYk-T9S8rhzIZnzCbED7E8SSSM/s1600/HST101-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf6gDrg_GuBqjIM6WXk_TBNvBu4x6j1HfT4quSLZ4uTCeDW6ymvNYmFecWYuaLTNxXwMkdF0lue-vyrnDXudIQzEthAhLKbB8o93kCZZ4dmncS4BAYvIYk-T9S8rhzIZnzCbED7E8SSSM/s1600/HST101-1.jpg" height="320" title="To Lone Pine lake" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuwZ6FMr1XKYmjyqMK2DmScK_Kl6jIxW4Ir9KjIB7y6GXR_qWV1MjZ8Wd76WcmEmkV7ua-hbQf6xgM5xEDk41W6_aQrti51yWy7LddovRDnyWVcT1esuh4PjkurhlPiRhSHTww_Bs2pvY/s1600/HST100-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuwZ6FMr1XKYmjyqMK2DmScK_Kl6jIxW4Ir9KjIB7y6GXR_qWV1MjZ8Wd76WcmEmkV7ua-hbQf6xgM5xEDk41W6_aQrti51yWy7LddovRDnyWVcT1esuh4PjkurhlPiRhSHTww_Bs2pvY/s1600/HST100-1.jpg" height="308" title="Whitney Zone sign" width="320" /></a> </div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">The spur trail to Lone Pine Lake follows the Whitney Zone sign immediately. Our original plan from before we started this trip was to spend our last night at this lake, another lake to add to my "Lake List". But as all plans do, they change. Noting to self to make just a special trip </span><i style="text-align: left;">just</i><span style="text-align: left;"> for this lake!</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwTjTaSnNjBijf7aNW7JY-4Qp14vFuthPw5yNi0NfMFh0chtwpimveEaX0FGiZ_cTBBqrneScGOc7WY5FfLZtSH0HN3b2OPJkKJE-CqAMXXME5VxW4xeyuWSxFoClJs-zxerQIc6ecb70/s1600/HST102-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwTjTaSnNjBijf7aNW7JY-4Qp14vFuthPw5yNi0NfMFh0chtwpimveEaX0FGiZ_cTBBqrneScGOc7WY5FfLZtSH0HN3b2OPJkKJE-CqAMXXME5VxW4xeyuWSxFoClJs-zxerQIc6ecb70/s1600/HST102-1.jpg" height="480" title="Mountaineers Route to Mt. Whitney" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">Continuing the trek down, the trail reaches the junction to the North Fork Lone Pine Creek Trail, or also known as the the <i>Mountaineers Route</i> to Mount Whitney. We're close to the end of our trip!</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">We reached Whitney Portal with Kari sitting by one of the rocks just off of the trellis covered area where a weighing scale is hanging, waiting patiently for us. Happy tears were had (as always - trips like these are awesome, but I still do get to miss her) and loads of happy hugs! </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj__s8a65XjPTWjATJhcT2D5w2DZyIv3fraQhVvzWBwdIU_-wGv7NiP1bJRFimJnS8W_EYh3jDLOHAEJT9qsgr5IURaA7iYOqu6FDTV9b8Au1zimr0JTtHDVBGhZb84dxKNgvng0gbRe9I/s1600/HST104-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj__s8a65XjPTWjATJhcT2D5w2DZyIv3fraQhVvzWBwdIU_-wGv7NiP1bJRFimJnS8W_EYh3jDLOHAEJT9qsgr5IURaA7iYOqu6FDTV9b8Au1zimr0JTtHDVBGhZb84dxKNgvng0gbRe9I/s1600/HST104-1.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a><span style="text-align: left;">We commemorated the day with ginormous bacon cheeseburgers and beers from the Whitney Portal Store before wrapping up and scoring a hot shower down by an RV Park in Olancha. We scoured for public showers that are open in Lone Pine after lunch, and failed.</span></div>
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Oshiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14465513929689702140noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441758913129244733.post-88544197496382586002015-02-26T09:57:00.001-08:002015-03-03T12:41:38.488-08:00High Sierra Trail Part 7 - Guitar Lake, Mount Whitney to Trail Camp<h4>
Day 7: Guitar Lake, Mount Whitney to Trail Camp - 9.5 miles and 3,045 feet gain/ 2,465 feet loss elevation</h4>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-fOELqk75nGsoCGHfPIp5_OCh-XLao9NqNLe5amGL2oZGYm21xo2JiqIfF67PSXRx_nwdn1Jf_eLrE4Wu_tadK9I0QVJ45s9y9206WpYk8U9S3SsQU0IW87eM7FrHFxZizhIKswrW29w/s1600/HST82-1a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-fOELqk75nGsoCGHfPIp5_OCh-XLao9NqNLe5amGL2oZGYm21xo2JiqIfF67PSXRx_nwdn1Jf_eLrE4Wu_tadK9I0QVJ45s9y9206WpYk8U9S3SsQU0IW87eM7FrHFxZizhIKswrW29w/s1600/HST82-1a.jpg" height="426" title="Good morning world! Good bye Guitar Lake!" width="640" /></a></div>
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The sun had barely started to come out when we set out back on the trail and yet the the trail has already been busy with hikers quietly shuffling their feet, stepping one foot after the other since dark. Summit Day!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7kxVZF_kjXjXsU_idse2dNqi3UIjOmFpdp2E50GQsaAC0njsH3Z-t8vmj860_3Gg2Bf9S8Zt23vZFsIx2YyQHbi6YGljeOgdnLnUaayf1uH9nbVHBNYcOFuTk-b7VWnQ9Zk1zgdEEMa0/s1600/HSTDay7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7kxVZF_kjXjXsU_idse2dNqi3UIjOmFpdp2E50GQsaAC0njsH3Z-t8vmj860_3Gg2Bf9S8Zt23vZFsIx2YyQHbi6YGljeOgdnLnUaayf1uH9nbVHBNYcOFuTk-b7VWnQ9Zk1zgdEEMa0/s1600/HSTDay7.jpg" height="288" width="320" /></a>Our dawn breakfast earlier of the usual oatmeal and coffee were spent watching bobbing lights making their way from Guitar Lake up the numerous switchbacks to the Mount Whitney Junction.<br />
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The trail continues along passing Guitar Lake and a couple of smaller lakes. There are a few small flat spots scattered around the area to pitch up a tent if one decides to stay further past Guitar Lake, before starting the laborious trek up. More distance today means less distance for tomorrow! If one prefers.<br />
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Not much can be said on this part of the trail but that it is going up, up, up.. and rocky! It was a slow procession for us. The series of switchbacks seemed endless and had me wondering if the 2 crows that kept circling above our heads are waiting for us to drop dead already, so they can swoop in on us for breakfast! Unfortunately for them though, they circled for nothing. We made it at the junction tired of walking up, but alive. They'll have to look for another meal! Ha! <i>*shakes fist at crows*</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC6lN3fUP32pEk46q0LqsedX7COadbpInsOQWdvlBxrLPzUBbq9IhZKpro9MCaYQpmw2-JVEfESm0eXWk5JXp4FVfAdbWqxap6qMS_n1PJKXPK-UT60gJ56A8T_IdVLTIMHphO_P6PZ6U/s1600/HST85-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC6lN3fUP32pEk46q0LqsedX7COadbpInsOQWdvlBxrLPzUBbq9IhZKpro9MCaYQpmw2-JVEfESm0eXWk5JXp4FVfAdbWqxap6qMS_n1PJKXPK-UT60gJ56A8T_IdVLTIMHphO_P6PZ6U/s1600/HST85-1.jpg" height="408" title="Trail junction to Mt. Whitney" width="640" /></a></div>
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Like many others who arrived before us, we dropped our packs at the junction to climb our way to the summit pack-free (some do prefer to bring their pack all the way, quite a few though). A lot of packs were tossed to the side by other backpackers, but everyone was responsible and considerate that no packs were in anyone's way. That was one of my fears on this part: disorganized packs thrown everywhere that I'd feel bad adding my pack to a mess and would have no option but to bring my pack up to Whitney then back down the same way. I like having options.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL1Cee3_2LtTiMZwGGUNYLvRmfPc0cOKaHyJg-kbtXVT3yVSQKvdowmrg7nMT-vdBYrb_utrI-XHKuwlWB8Sa15FNvRcPzhh9AKQLv8tLIIT7i-YTtpTA3CeVbWSUV-FX3N-D5H_02wcY/s1600/HST83-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL1Cee3_2LtTiMZwGGUNYLvRmfPc0cOKaHyJg-kbtXVT3yVSQKvdowmrg7nMT-vdBYrb_utrI-XHKuwlWB8Sa15FNvRcPzhh9AKQLv8tLIIT7i-YTtpTA3CeVbWSUV-FX3N-D5H_02wcY/s1600/HST83-1.jpg" height="250" width="320" /></a></div>
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We minimized our belongings on this part of our hike, we started our rocky, gravelly ascent to the summit. The quick rest by our packs was a good idea, it was a continuous hike up. We ambled our way on rocky terrain, best paying attention where we were stepping lest we roll an ankle so close to the summit, and so close to the end of the trip!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrSqvsfcF_lseFqeqMq6GSARIPDSgLi_cH0xZr3_rTiETmXPCo660c_Bh-E5n7QRX9Wx6Hm3Ey3UpdcOxTmonowyFUw89v3io3a3-EvEVmEMxcKfzgFK2MfoNrRqzO3Zq6Wcl9bi2lPko/s1600/HST85-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrSqvsfcF_lseFqeqMq6GSARIPDSgLi_cH0xZr3_rTiETmXPCo660c_Bh-E5n7QRX9Wx6Hm3Ey3UpdcOxTmonowyFUw89v3io3a3-EvEVmEMxcKfzgFK2MfoNrRqzO3Zq6Wcl9bi2lPko/s1600/HST85-1.jpg" height="358" title="Pack-free to Whitney!" width="640" /></a></div>
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I know posts after posts I've said it before but yes, you're gonna read it again: the views were spectacular! We've lost the greenery from trees, meadows.. they've been replaced by gorgeous blue alpine lakes contrasted against the beige of the rocks and back dropped with a gorgeous blue sky. Yup, it's a good day to summit.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinW_l7r9EpSRpuQzzI6j1_b3U0fDMiIDXNLkuie-1Jv36-x7XJ21YkryzpWGwa_7gq3wMXI8Fvkz3-B_PVfqsXOYIReUc-uiQQyMF_mfYPggiwN7AtYnl_1C5PA90pEY6-CZCOwv7KQ9w/s1600/HST84-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinW_l7r9EpSRpuQzzI6j1_b3U0fDMiIDXNLkuie-1Jv36-x7XJ21YkryzpWGwa_7gq3wMXI8Fvkz3-B_PVfqsXOYIReUc-uiQQyMF_mfYPggiwN7AtYnl_1C5PA90pEY6-CZCOwv7KQ9w/s1600/HST84-1.jpg" height="480" title="A view with a cell signal. LOL." width="640" /></a></div>
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I'm not one to make phone calls when in the wilderness. Most of the places we go to, we can't anyways, it's devoid of any cellular signal. But along this trail, there's a section that even weak ATT has a spot, 4G to boot! Right by, what I overheard hikers call, the "two windows". We took the opportunity and called Kari to recap and catch any changes when she picks us up the next day. A rare moment I was grateful for cell signal in the backcountry!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0OrzsphXd6X9ZaZdSYMsnGnzpTxPtIDEsSXZFnTI4HFvo_Pi-hTf24PNP4Xbo3hGWvtv3HiaNKxZgA1E9_j9gMC1yPTuLmFVYuQ235zxK7qaaK19GA0vhHhthxZFvXu2LarObGjAd_uw/s1600/HST90-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="This tablet marks the construction of the highest trail in the United States. Begun in 1928, it was completed in 1930 under the direction of the National Park Service working with the U.S. Forest Service." border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0OrzsphXd6X9ZaZdSYMsnGnzpTxPtIDEsSXZFnTI4HFvo_Pi-hTf24PNP4Xbo3hGWvtv3HiaNKxZgA1E9_j9gMC1yPTuLmFVYuQ235zxK7qaaK19GA0vhHhthxZFvXu2LarObGjAd_uw/s1600/HST90-1.jpg" height="187" title="John Muir Trail - High Sierra Trail" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi_wolWmwDVVsn_e35t5WbFiGrBpu-DOdZH7IPqbGc5WtS8iWy5GLtrOag4M6zfC5FhMm9Vo_rK8oueYPN0YBuC5e5iqAt1BNxtL0E7SEzBs3Xyje_2DWlwcUvPGzG0lKx46Iw8v2inCs/s1600/HST87-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi_wolWmwDVVsn_e35t5WbFiGrBpu-DOdZH7IPqbGc5WtS8iWy5GLtrOag4M6zfC5FhMm9Vo_rK8oueYPN0YBuC5e5iqAt1BNxtL0E7SEzBs3Xyje_2DWlwcUvPGzG0lKx46Iw8v2inCs/s1600/HST87-1.jpg" height="240" title="Signing the summit register." width="320" /></a><br />
We reached the summit before lunch. Deliriously happy we all made it together. We were fortunate the summit was not crowded, as we met lots of people already heading down on our way up. Perks of starting later than everyone else, maybe? Lunch was forgotten but not photos. It was a photo overload moment!<br />
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We signed the summit register located next to the hut and milled around a bit.<br />
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Opening the summit register was like opening up a school desk in an art class! So much colorful stickers adorned the inside of the summit register (though not too happy with some that seem to be just trash), even found a Staples Easy Button in there! After reaching the top, press "That was easy!" and pat yourself on the back. Haha.<br />
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The next wave of hikers reaching the summit started trickling in just as a huge drone swept by above our heads. We took that as a cue to head back down and begrudgingly claim our packs down at the junction. Hiking pack-free was short-lived.<br />
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Arriving at Trail Crest, we noted how easily we're going downhill and the consideration to make it to Whitney Portal that same day, no matter how late, became stronger. Until we started getting closer to Trail Camp. Knees have started to become bothersome from all the downhill steps just as the weather started making a turn from sunny to cloudy to rain to small hail. And here we thought we got all the wet weather out of the way already!<br />
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Resolving to stay at Trail Camp, not even making out to Outpost, we hurriedly pitched our tents against the pelting rain. Burgers and beers will have to wait another day.<br />
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Trail Camp has several flat spots to camp scattered about. Marmots abound this area, so best be careful not to leave your food unattended, not even for a second! The area is pretty exposed, not one tree around. And the area is pretty crowded, from day hikers, Whitney Trail campers, and other thru-hikers. Bathroom breaks sure were a challenge! People coming down can see you, people coming up can see you, people around you can at least see your head when you're squatting.. not to mention the many marmots that will unabashedly stare at you!<br />
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There are no bear box/ food lockers around for convenience which is a good idea, I can just imagine it being abused considering the busyness of the area. There is a small lake for water source. And plenty of rocks to utilize from camp stakes, hammers, camp chairs, camp tables, etc..<br />
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<br />Oshiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14465513929689702140noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441758913129244733.post-42066891894478464522015-02-17T11:48:00.001-08:002015-02-19T08:54:21.763-08:00High Sierra Trail Part 6 - Wallace Creek Junction to Guitar Lake<h4>
Day 6: (almost) Wallace Creek Junction to Guitar Lake - 7.7 miles and 1,055 ft elevation gain</h4>
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We awoke the next morning, eager to get a head start. We're so close to Mount Whitney, we can smell it! One more day. It was a gorgeous morning. The sun was out and it was a blue bird sky.<br />
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We hopped back on the trail, no hikers have passed by our little clearing trail side just yet. It wasn't long till the trail opened up to a wide creek. We weren't too far off from yesterday's targeted destination! The trail continues on the other side of Wallace Creek.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3QIP0LV8fQmRJ-S9cgRYEvkaqkVQjI9de17X1zGKS_jBeuLrbWfSKilPOJIYze1xAr0Tt5R-KiXw9UT0gWgVKvK4CZVFr-_HyqsWFB88Z6EgsxvkgOHffnMlc_STZq4j2ppidp2G-cqw/s1600/HST72-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3QIP0LV8fQmRJ-S9cgRYEvkaqkVQjI9de17X1zGKS_jBeuLrbWfSKilPOJIYze1xAr0Tt5R-KiXw9UT0gWgVKvK4CZVFr-_HyqsWFB88Z6EgsxvkgOHffnMlc_STZq4j2ppidp2G-cqw/s1600/HST72-1.jpg" height="222" title="Crossing Wallace creek." width="400" /></a></div>
We waded our way through. And once at the other side, we looked around; sitting and drying our feet, campers were scattered all around. We greeted some morning cheers to some campers we recognized from the camp at Kern. We didn't get to inspect around the area but quickly spotted one bear box/food locker to the right of us. Not sure if there was more than one, though. The area seemed a little crowded, different colored tents glistened in the morning sun. It was a cheerful sight! But we were glad to have had our previous night's camp all to ourselves. No one but ourselves to hear all our complains of aches and witness us lick our wounds! Haha.<br />
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Passing a few more tents down the trail and crossing a small stream, the trail started going uphill and continued on to some switchbacks. The High Sierra Trail we've been trekking on has now merged with the John Muir and for a short period, the Pacific Crest Trail, as well. We're now getting a preview of the last portion of our future JMT adventure!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsAWA6EdoTv_drwrP6K_02l-K7a5wEY5ig6sDKee8RwDLRLPtHQvOASHCtJMzOXFuyrt-0whpP31yt1Cg28m2sv6UGjrQGo_a8S4NeiiUL87N4EG44wDReKeQ7bNJH8AZRISuBma9iQtk/s1600/HST74-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsAWA6EdoTv_drwrP6K_02l-K7a5wEY5ig6sDKee8RwDLRLPtHQvOASHCtJMzOXFuyrt-0whpP31yt1Cg28m2sv6UGjrQGo_a8S4NeiiUL87N4EG44wDReKeQ7bNJH8AZRISuBma9iQtk/s1600/HST74-1.jpg" height="160" title="Crabtree Meadow." width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj7IZfi2QWNvZafzZD2pHp4AwL6PYQDpb50r94cPyQnTXxOd0C9B_tgWJddpsssLs9AjbaoRS0sKs_H15ph4UAk8H8LLuGTV5qMCisrcXsQMrCzykgjd45KignRgc719lqPD-rsfG00PM/s1600/HST75-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj7IZfi2QWNvZafzZD2pHp4AwL6PYQDpb50r94cPyQnTXxOd0C9B_tgWJddpsssLs9AjbaoRS0sKs_H15ph4UAk8H8LLuGTV5qMCisrcXsQMrCzykgjd45KignRgc719lqPD-rsfG00PM/s1600/HST75-1.jpg" style="cursor: move;" /></a>We hiked on towards and thru a very beautiful Crabtree Meadow (though I'm still partial to Sky Parlor Meadow.. shhh!). The PCT portion we've long since left, but we're still trekking along with the JMT. The trail continued on through before starting a short ascend to an exposed portion and we walked up to the trail sign pointing to the Crabtree Ranger Station. There was a plastic container right next to the sign containing Wag Bag Kits.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihBGDHanjKGR934gl4HGx1sqfjMQYy-T18gcMgDm1vaozIACKT6lUFe_GkXK9K9u-zaJugi7HlrK2lnxXzKbhJ2kCnKEhNO4TQYkhFitZoaiuqZVZ0Fuph9D90Agqhuhsuw3zLJUkniBA/s1600/HST76-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihBGDHanjKGR934gl4HGx1sqfjMQYy-T18gcMgDm1vaozIACKT6lUFe_GkXK9K9u-zaJugi7HlrK2lnxXzKbhJ2kCnKEhNO4TQYkhFitZoaiuqZVZ0Fuph9D90Agqhuhsuw3zLJUkniBA/s1600/HST76-1.jpg" height="150" title="One hiker's toilet is another backpacker's camp. Approximately 20,000 people use the Mt. Whitney corridor. Please help keep it feces free." width="200" /> </a>Wag Bags are now required from here on forward till we exit the Whitney Zone, which is by the Lone Pine Lake junction via our exit trail to Whitney Portal. Digging cat holes to dispose of human waste is no longer allowed on these parts.They are to be packed out.<br />
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The Wag Bag kit includes:<br />
<ul>
<li>(1) bag that has chemicals that freezes and traps odors of human waste</li>
<li>(1) larger bag to seal in the previous bag</li>
<li>(1) small roll of tissue paper and..</li>
<li>(2) moist towelettes</li>
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I love how thoughtful these kits were.. moist towelettes! Ha!<br />
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If you weren't provided a kit before you took off to this area, this is the chance to pick one up before you go. It's multi-use, just need one!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipOzPvaYrrefGe3-Gcx58TSkGko8YYV0OpFWnStRSqZZpKfbt8ohC0o5LpJizpjhCBREZ0x_v-tCidMbjxnu2O53q8a5Hr-dCzn2gQvZ9tiGzeDTD-5H2rG5Pkug_Ns_JE1QrFBhkMuo8/s1600/HST77-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipOzPvaYrrefGe3-Gcx58TSkGko8YYV0OpFWnStRSqZZpKfbt8ohC0o5LpJizpjhCBREZ0x_v-tCidMbjxnu2O53q8a5Hr-dCzn2gQvZ9tiGzeDTD-5H2rG5Pkug_Ns_JE1QrFBhkMuo8/s1600/HST77-1.jpg" height="240" title="Playing chase-the-tree-shades!" width="320" /></a>Had a quick lunch break here watching and greeting a hodge-podge of hikers pass by. We didn't get to spot the ranger station but did see a couple of tents pitched up just a walk on a spur trail below, on a shaded clearing. Looks to be a good spot to camp! Written guides note a bear box/food locker here but we didn't see one. Must be closer to the ranger station.<br />
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Continuing on, the trail was a bit exposed to the mid-day sun letting us play the "chase-the-tree-shades" again. Taking mili-second breaks against trees giving a bit of shade.<br />
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The scenery along the trail eventually opened up to a very serene lake, named Timberline Lake (no camping nor grazing!).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin-hRHwmE7_NeMVIw4wjUTyYEz7Y9YzexCbupNl_E3p1FTRn4mSPFiY-aT0gE8yxhl3dWhHVYJP5eZvaOSo62ZbwHza7Cvkk0I2ZARL66d_zajNvBu2-StKAOeC6xE0f0qIQ4l7Q2-qRo/s1600/HST78-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin-hRHwmE7_NeMVIw4wjUTyYEz7Y9YzexCbupNl_E3p1FTRn4mSPFiY-aT0gE8yxhl3dWhHVYJP5eZvaOSo62ZbwHza7Cvkk0I2ZARL66d_zajNvBu2-StKAOeC6xE0f0qIQ4l7Q2-qRo/s1600/HST78-1.jpg" height="480" title="Timberline Lake" width="640" /></a></div>
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Then the trees started becoming more and more sparse. Making the trail more and more exposed to the sun and we were seeing less and less greenery. But the views started on another level of grandeur scenery of strewn boulders, spires, granite rocks against blue skies. We're getting closer to our stop for the day, Guitar Lake.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsHmd8kvrh-Miso6LcSCfhB-YGpdWsXuzy-V2IPzmRGvc6C3PZ1dTVB2GD50Zgq4rcktX2txDGotxBt7pOagUEoz3cuXoAc4PXTgsJiRMx7m4z3RYC3djV_Abo9BKDNexiUm5WNPtUc3E/s1600/HST79-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsHmd8kvrh-Miso6LcSCfhB-YGpdWsXuzy-V2IPzmRGvc6C3PZ1dTVB2GD50Zgq4rcktX2txDGotxBt7pOagUEoz3cuXoAc4PXTgsJiRMx7m4z3RYC3djV_Abo9BKDNexiUm5WNPtUc3E/s1600/HST79-1.jpg" height="480" title="Totally thought this was Joe, but upon closer inspection.. it was a random backpacker!" width="640" /></a></div>
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It didn't take long for the trail to take us to our <i>"resort"</i> for the day. We arrived with time for a late lunch spread, chill time and Joe's brave plunge into the cold waters of Guitar Lake.<br />
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Backpackers pitching up tents were strewn across the open area made it a busy place. Even though the day is far from over, hikers have stopped here catching enough rest to get an early start for tomorrow's trek up to Whitney and back down the other direction and out to Whitney Portal.<br />
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Finding a flat spot against something to block the wind was a task, everyone was looking to block the wind sweeping in the big bowl we were in. A small patch of dark clouds taunted us with a storm but only let out a small afternoon rain, all the while the sun still shining! We have a saying in my home country that goes along with this weather "anomaly" of raining while the sun shines: <i>"May kinakasal na Kapre"</i> (translation: A wedding with a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kapre" target="_blank">Kapre</a> is taking place.) And today reinforces its myth. For a "Kapre" supposedly lives under/by big trees and there are <i>zero</i> trees surrounding us that moment, not even a small one! Suffice it to say, it was safe to enjoy the weather outside, <i>Kapre-less</i>.<br />
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Day 5: Kern Hot Springs to (almost) Wallace Creek Junction; 12.1 miles and 3,525 feet elevation gain</h4>
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Wondering why there's an "almost" on that little sub-heading? We didn't think we were going to make it to our Wallace Creek junction stop. This post would have been "Kern Hot Springs to <i>somewhere in between Junction Meadow and Wallace Creek Junction</i>". That would've meant we stayed somewhere along a 4 mile trail LOL. But it turns out we ended the day just on the other side of the river from it.<br />
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The following morning we woke up still dazed from losing all those elevation the previous day. We stumbled out of our tents to fumble between making a quick breakfast and hurrying to make it to the hot springs tub.<br />
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As was expected, the tub was empty on this glorious morning! However, Joe was but the only one to brave the morning cold, stripped and jumped right in the tub. I just sat at the edge and soaked my lower limbs. But it was nice to feel like it was our own private hot tub in the middle of nowhere! We had it all to ourselves.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJB8r-lJleDJciTBoCzT-NmOYJycSTL-qkT9MmwTB6q8X6aOIHgLODrUThmwS6Qe99XUiRH0D5QcDwd8g5Y4t5RXqFZ41ZLSro52bb9KQh4BpHMRxiXzCLF5rLVOSd-HfhZr4_3NxvQTc/s1600/HST61-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJB8r-lJleDJciTBoCzT-NmOYJycSTL-qkT9MmwTB6q8X6aOIHgLODrUThmwS6Qe99XUiRH0D5QcDwd8g5Y4t5RXqFZ41ZLSro52bb9KQh4BpHMRxiXzCLF5rLVOSd-HfhZr4_3NxvQTc/s1600/HST61-1.jpg" height="320" title="My preferred hot tub.. in the wilderness!" width="240" /></a>The tub was built along side the river. The hot spring is being directed towards the cemented tub by a pipe. It's a continuous flow of hot water and there's a stopper at the bottom of the tub to keep the water in. You can unplug and plug it back in, as you see fit to change the water. It drains out onto the ground (no plumbing out here!), hence the sign: No soap! The tub is pretty cozy, enough to fit 2 people sitting inside or 4 sitting on the edge with legs soaking (5 if you're feeling <i>extremely </i>close to each other).<br />
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We could've stayed longer, but things needed to be wrapped up back at our camp and we have a big climb to do today. In our minds we knew those numbers in feet we lost joyously gliding down the day before, it was gonna bite us back today.<br />
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Our minds were in so much denial that we subconsciously procrastinated the morning away and had welcomed with open arms the El Vortex while breaking camp. She talked.. we talked and packed. She was staying another night at the hot springs while we needed to inch our way back up to 10,000 feet.<br />
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It was late-morning by the time we left. The sun was in its full beam. We followed the trail that passed through the camp and maneuvered our first water crossing for the day, just beyond the camps. Then the trail did not waste time kicking our butts. The incline started.<br />
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We climbed up and out of the river. The sun was hot and the trail had little to no shade. Tried to stop in the shadow of some trees when we'd find one. It became a game of chasing shadows, helping to forget the climb we're doing. One foot in front and higher than the other.<br />
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We crossed another tributary and eventually entered a wooded, more shaded area and enjoyed a momentary relief from what seemed like a 10000% grade. We've been traipsing on mostly flat trail.<br />
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The trail of relief is now interrupted by the most challenging water crossing we've yet encountered. Our legs (at least some of us hehe) were already wobbly from fatigue. There were two log options to cross with, couldn't find a shallow part of the river to wade in and not enough rocks to play hopscotch on.<br />
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The guys chose one log to get across and us girls rode the other one that was a bit more down stream. Yes, we rode it. Haha. Sat on that log and scooted our way to the other side. Unconventional. But fun! Mechanical bull ride practice anyone? Where one mistake throws you onto a raging river! LOL.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6wJkBxuMr3iUwOFwcJAaNrOcGnTBms0tPsHdsNx9J76liu9rCe6nHkgsYq7Z8JkLX9MmLyM8YsAmzLbYaGEFj0mCzi0er_AZ67ABfJAHJLcU4Y4KjY6CC_Ii1yG_0yEoOq_Sn5uc3UbA/s1600/HST66-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6wJkBxuMr3iUwOFwcJAaNrOcGnTBms0tPsHdsNx9J76liu9rCe6nHkgsYq7Z8JkLX9MmLyM8YsAmzLbYaGEFj0mCzi0er_AZ67ABfJAHJLcU4Y4KjY6CC_Ii1yG_0yEoOq_Sn5uc3UbA/s1600/HST66-1.jpg" height="200" title="16 more miles to Whitney!" width="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipmL2rlguZNDB9ckKCZr-Y9acJq5u7TSLL7qJcmu9Iy_8ZZvtA8u6e-zAkeJhGX5D4jj5_bYu4tWYBZArn95P1L5Tsb4iUY27IadQYmZ1WlwariM2KKsVeOL5O2Gm2xlwpS9xjHpHTZnY/s1600/HST65-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipmL2rlguZNDB9ckKCZr-Y9acJq5u7TSLL7qJcmu9Iy_8ZZvtA8u6e-zAkeJhGX5D4jj5_bYu4tWYBZArn95P1L5Tsb4iUY27IadQYmZ1WlwariM2KKsVeOL5O2Gm2xlwpS9xjHpHTZnY/s1600/HST65-1.jpg" height="240" title="To stay or not to stay.." width="320" /></a>It wasn't long after that crossing that the trail eventually led to Junction Meadow. The area is good spot to pitch a camp, flat with lots of trees. A bear box/ food locker is also available for use.<br />
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It was inviting to stay here, but the day was still a long ways to its end. There's still lots of daylight to consume mileage with. After a quick look up to the direction where the trail headed to, we trudged on. Still roughly another 2,000 feet up to Wallace Creek and 4 more miles. But 4 less miles to Whitney though!<br />
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The trail started going up again. A little over a mile of just incline, we reached another trail junction.<br />
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And we continued our one foot in front and higher than the other. It was a good thing the clouds started covering the sun. The trail was mostly exposed. I could smell the makings of rain but no signs of thunder and lightning. We're in the clear.<br />
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That last climb got the best of us. After a beautiful water crossing (Dunno why, but I really liked this water crossing!), we exhaustively stumbled on our camp site for the night. A good, flat and cushion-y clearing with water access. Traces of previous campers were evident. Fallen logs surrounded the small clearing in a square form with an already built fire pit in the middle. And it was all ours.<br />
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Pitched up just before dusk. We were just less than a mile short of Wallace Creek junction, the intended destination. That last push of a mile? Yeah. Out the window. We're done. 3,500 feet later, we're throwing in the towel. We're willing to throw that extra mile for tomorrow's journey. At least we're back at 10K feet now.. or so our altimeter says.<br />
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We're ready for dinner.<br />
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But it was a good call. We'd find out the following morning.</div>
Oshiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14465513929689702140noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441758913129244733.post-49070627221626585482015-01-22T15:06:00.001-08:002015-01-22T15:06:38.216-08:00High Sierra Trail Part 4 - Big Arroyo Junction to Kern Hot Springs<h3>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhByIut-7XK7oWu1o9XrmY4cbK6IifWStnwBe71FeX0RGoS_yl6L-qVC1iZ27rv3uiWcydBA92byhUpTBCmS8eSIdA2u9dU1GuHUursGRpZhhjnfAQxFfb0GbCWlyFiVyJus5e8V-KLDg/s1600/HSTDay4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhByIut-7XK7oWu1o9XrmY4cbK6IifWStnwBe71FeX0RGoS_yl6L-qVC1iZ27rv3uiWcydBA92byhUpTBCmS8eSIdA2u9dU1GuHUursGRpZhhjnfAQxFfb0GbCWlyFiVyJus5e8V-KLDg/s1600/HSTDay4.jpg" height="288" width="320" /></a>Day 4: Big Arroyo Junction to Kern Hot Springs with a Moraine Lake side trip; 14.3 miles - 420 elevation loss</h3>
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Done a quick breakfast, we're back on the trail after a really cold previous night, but nothing that a bottle of hot water inside my sleeping bag couldn't cure, though.</div>
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We started the hike with a solo hiker we met early on, whom we dubbed possessed the El Vortex, a situation of endless enjoyable conversations. She was doing a series of trails that will have her visit a few hot springs in the Sierra Nevada and hopes to write a book about it. Minus the book part, it was a mission that we found was the same for another solo female hiker we met at Kaweah Gap the day before.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJmuBKY4Cryqq5LEA1Zpmi0UKUKFNhj3MxAioleJL4zld-RBiXUmN6UwgUoaD8Q4VyEWIMSczxQl2PQK8fBGJVD90q3MlvLEhN_ZnB6liGdL6E448n_Tu2lCw-m-9ORLW0OGfV8etsHuk/s1600/HST44-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJmuBKY4Cryqq5LEA1Zpmi0UKUKFNhj3MxAioleJL4zld-RBiXUmN6UwgUoaD8Q4VyEWIMSczxQl2PQK8fBGJVD90q3MlvLEhN_ZnB6liGdL6E448n_Tu2lCw-m-9ORLW0OGfV8etsHuk/s1600/HST44-1.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a>El Vortex was half more than any of our ages but uber filled with energy and so lively that we soon find ourselves eating her dust and eventually losing her. We waved our goodbyes to her (all solemnly vowing to have her life and energy when we get to her age) with a bid to hopefully see her at the next camp stop, the Kern Hot Springs.<br />
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The trail runs along the side of a mountain and we seem to either be walking on a stream of water that had taken over the trail or constantly cross-hopping on one, trickling down the mountain slope. A cool morning start, hiking with the sounds of water flowing at your feet as your backdrop sound.<br />
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We'd be walking amongst the trees at first. The sun had started filtering through the trees. A promise of maybe another rain-less day. Yay! But in the Sierras, it is best not keep your hopes up and always be prepared!<br />
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Eventually, the trees would give way to sweeping vistas and we'd be climbing on exposed sections, then back on through being enveloped by the trees again.<br />
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On our trip of the High Sierra Trail, we opted to bypass a portion of it by skipping the portion of Chagoopa Creek and choosing to do the side trip to Moraine Lake. The mileage total is only slightly affected, an estimate of 0.8 mile is added, didn't even feel it! but then.. to what comparison? Haha.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizkCSP0-K9RL322zznA3uOhGrBZkqxjjp7RGkORb7T_agIPbvgkKjBJso8j1_VwLqKl0_5knB9e5P_w3WTV18gr9oxpp1PrVfu3DDuTf520EVtA1LiV4XFJv0Y15pzMzMO1QY9ojOd69E/s1600/HST48-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizkCSP0-K9RL322zznA3uOhGrBZkqxjjp7RGkORb7T_agIPbvgkKjBJso8j1_VwLqKl0_5knB9e5P_w3WTV18gr9oxpp1PrVfu3DDuTf520EVtA1LiV4XFJv0Y15pzMzMO1QY9ojOd69E/s1600/HST48-1.jpg" height="169" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwzQ7ggIZYiAneESUH-1W1ExCBye4MGwdvuAXJPaSevGkfRjmPyfjek_kOj93SXTv0qb44w49b9o-AAeIjc5YDj8tAawj_qzN4z7OqBLb_8k0tOc8Us3NhUQoLUWWvADwLt_N3Lv4SUIU/s1600/HST49-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwzQ7ggIZYiAneESUH-1W1ExCBye4MGwdvuAXJPaSevGkfRjmPyfjek_kOj93SXTv0qb44w49b9o-AAeIjc5YDj8tAawj_qzN4z7OqBLb_8k0tOc8Us3NhUQoLUWWvADwLt_N3Lv4SUIU/s1600/HST49-1.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a>We arrived at the junction where we'll be leaving the HST. The area is in ever abundance of meadows over meadows.. if that is even possible! Meadows galore! Our excitement of taking meadow photos was eventually given up, finally succumbing to defeat against all the<i> meadow-bounty-ness</i>. Really, just too much to take photos of!<br />
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We took a short break at the junction and went on our way taking the right fork of the trail towards Moraine Lake. The trail goes on in a slow decline almost flat on most parts. There's a lot of washes that seems to have slightly swept the trail away but it's not a real issue. The trail can easily be picked up again, just pay attention to the surroundings and a clear idea of the direction you're supposed to be heading are an excellent formula (hint, hint a well studied map is a plus along side bringing one!).<br />
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We sped on through on this part, stopping twice to fix my blister coverings (apparently, they don't like to stay on when you're speeding through in downhill motion lol) and the usual bathroom breaks (hydrating and dehydrating, the cycle). This trail albeit not part of the HST, still had grand views.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCY7ULM5-yxw832OwSCualQj2Zl1M5jDYWlmiuLqHLLnTQ3lBcLE-KfCWyn1a053Eaj-aRKKmLjhnFMLnbDc8S-d-p_0N_Vs49BzWEdKyheY5CV_lhYHxhJW0QwZU8AJ3smwHUnql0AuE/s1600/HST50-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCY7ULM5-yxw832OwSCualQj2Zl1M5jDYWlmiuLqHLLnTQ3lBcLE-KfCWyn1a053Eaj-aRKKmLjhnFMLnbDc8S-d-p_0N_Vs49BzWEdKyheY5CV_lhYHxhJW0QwZU8AJ3smwHUnql0AuE/s1600/HST50-1.jpg" height="304" title="Joe trying to get a closer view without falling!" width="640" /></a></div>
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We rounded a small hill then spotted an orange dot from afar, a tent! As we got closer to said orange dot, glimpses of the lake sparkling on the high sun came into view in between trees. Steered a little away from the campers and another hiker also taking a break, we claimed a small spot on the beach under some trees as protection from the blistering sun and plopped down for lunch, a quick wash of ourselves and some clothes.<br />
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The lake was serene. The entire area was quiet, not as busy as the other spots we've camped at the past few days. But then we've probably just have missed some campers who might have left early in the morning and just caught layover-ers, who knows. We just noted a couple of tents right along side the bear box/ food locker and a couple of folks fishing a bit away from us.<br />
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Giving up on ever taking a nap and having the clothes we've washed (if you can call soaking and feebly scrubbing the fabrics against our hands that) already dried, we packed up our stuff and decided to get back on the trail and try to aim for the Kern Hot Springs for the night. That is, if we arrive early enough at Upper Funston Meadow. Otherwise, it'll be Upper Funston Meadow for the night. That was going to be our deciding factor: Time at Upper Funston.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxeJgeoYoBrVYGxeexG2tvGnERg75fm9ob0y_hANSK2FJUc252S1Ehih7egUNvyQkhRJc0UwcI_sN2XxBv3cQkUmkafyaQe0JPB-7S_QwMR2EWvu1TKwy3jSxH9IF38B9FXw4SZoLg5_A/s1600/HST52-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxeJgeoYoBrVYGxeexG2tvGnERg75fm9ob0y_hANSK2FJUc252S1Ehih7egUNvyQkhRJc0UwcI_sN2XxBv3cQkUmkafyaQe0JPB-7S_QwMR2EWvu1TKwy3jSxH9IF38B9FXw4SZoLg5_A/s1600/HST52-1.jpg" height="240" title="Leaping trees sure can tire you out!" width="320" /></a></div>
The trail out of Moraine Lake, on the other direction from where we came from was even less clear. It skirted around the very lush Sky Parlor Meadow before meeting up with the High Sierra Trail again.<br />
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Immediately after leaving the lake, the trail gets lost in between overgrown shrubs and a lot of downed trees, some on top of each other, that it was difficult to go up and over. Some trees showed signs of their previous towering size during their upright days that they had to be walked all the way around, sometimes having to climb a hill up then back down again. We passed by some remains of an old log cabin before eventually meeting back with the High Sierra Trail.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4jTyoFW8LECh1SzmwZq70Yd7e4XNEMeuSPATpzIEnu9Ug73WH6q-YZuQZPir03l66nyujraJGLyCG_L6eLmXLv1It7nfHUii_wF2pAGYAPnyVrycdGwlJkbX8jW-TBpUFhPNKE582-Ho/s1600/HST53-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4jTyoFW8LECh1SzmwZq70Yd7e4XNEMeuSPATpzIEnu9Ug73WH6q-YZuQZPir03l66nyujraJGLyCG_L6eLmXLv1It7nfHUii_wF2pAGYAPnyVrycdGwlJkbX8jW-TBpUFhPNKE582-Ho/s1600/HST53-1.jpg" height="148" title="Sky Parlor Meadow!" width="640" /></a></div>
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For what very little I could find on trip reports for trips, one thing was certain, there were major rattlesnake warnings by others for this area, from Sky Parlor Meadow to the Kern River . And with good reason. as a few crossed our paths along the trail even at dusk.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim75ZL6zg8uJfWfjdfJhyphenhyphen5VGaXD_zLnamOBJeBPdoUGXh_ZPkuzcSlWu5ioRf_LO6OelSg78qvINimvqBZ7Hv_9JoZ26ZY89emJKurqxZx474SXN9QcqkQkLQmYf0qyycWTqohij29pIk/s1600/HST54-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim75ZL6zg8uJfWfjdfJhyphenhyphen5VGaXD_zLnamOBJeBPdoUGXh_ZPkuzcSlWu5ioRf_LO6OelSg78qvINimvqBZ7Hv_9JoZ26ZY89emJKurqxZx474SXN9QcqkQkLQmYf0qyycWTqohij29pIk/s1600/HST54-1.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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It was all some major downhill climb approaching Kern Canyon down to the Kern River. We lost about 3,740 feet of elevation from Sky Parlor Meadow (9,140 feet) to Kern River (6,880 feet). The knees I can feel were taking its beating rather well, either that or we were just enjoying speeding through the trail.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkDjoIlz_siKHPUoeCmJ0YV_0gTxw2d51HYtVDS_r8EzeCpqp-xUoC3EgO6_CUGoNUX5gsIFdANpQNwr5c42zKXujJkKUpG3XkwS06om9Bn5dg5pz4Sjf8Wqlf1GdM439_zry03sRlrpI/s1600/HST54-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkDjoIlz_siKHPUoeCmJ0YV_0gTxw2d51HYtVDS_r8EzeCpqp-xUoC3EgO6_CUGoNUX5gsIFdANpQNwr5c42zKXujJkKUpG3XkwS06om9Bn5dg5pz4Sjf8Wqlf1GdM439_zry03sRlrpI/s1600/HST54-1.jpg" height="480" title="Kern Canyon - we're headed somewhere down there!" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyXdjmxX4xYBRH7hUd1QjHbA77MvqU_PlZJf8xb-EGmVEZ_bB7WmqsbETnzZtV2p5snmJrQPTYc6mjWuo6bcqF13M5Z6uJdBfVTpNev11e86kSLPRAjSCNZbwHYz-oG1eH7UYmpuezMww/s1600/HST56-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyXdjmxX4xYBRH7hUd1QjHbA77MvqU_PlZJf8xb-EGmVEZ_bB7WmqsbETnzZtV2p5snmJrQPTYc6mjWuo6bcqF13M5Z6uJdBfVTpNev11e86kSLPRAjSCNZbwHYz-oG1eH7UYmpuezMww/s1600/HST56-1.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a>We arrived at Upper Funston Meadow, debated the situation in front of us; camping out at mosquito laden, eerie looking spot but have a chance to put up our feet already at this very moment.. or push on the last couple of miles to Kern Hot Springs and enjoy a hot bath tonight or first thing tomorrow morning. It was a debate.. but the hot springs won.<br />
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The last couple of miles were hiked out in the dusk. The sun was still out but does not shine all the way down at the bottom of the canyon. We were surrounded by ferns and we can hear the sounds of a creek flowing but could not clearly see it. We were swatting mosquitoes as went by. Leaving the Funston area, we entered a wilderness gate with a sign that instructs the passers-by to keep it closed. The rest of the trail were occasionally along dirt but mostly walking on granite rocks blasted out to create the trail.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdA53P6QW3OGenY-4NTa6CZmnB7fdy-4Ty1fSwGW1qKCa8vaya1SzRdB7IH6o6ly4Cq7AZ39QzO2Zr5QClDVWOabSw9meuvPWeGnZom45JznqUhUSyeKX88Zvl_V36SKOKRKdHfwjpfsg/s1600/HST57-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdA53P6QW3OGenY-4NTa6CZmnB7fdy-4Ty1fSwGW1qKCa8vaya1SzRdB7IH6o6ly4Cq7AZ39QzO2Zr5QClDVWOabSw9meuvPWeGnZom45JznqUhUSyeKX88Zvl_V36SKOKRKdHfwjpfsg/s1600/HST57-1.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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We got closer to a wooden bridge to cross a wide portion of the river. Grateful for these occasional conveniences! We had one more tributary to cross, minus the convenience of a bridge and this one was smaller, before we would find everybody convening at the hot springs tub towards our left. Can you say hot tub partay?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhlq0jLH-7w6fpjeK9UtKQc5VhRZ20uau5hzpTn3dZw6oDz2HviXgCMJ5qi6ZWbQBry90DlupSaE-to4UOXZxwjKFj5MwdGkJf8LzxCn86zy42SBcUng1asmggxjXNLNmUx9ntaV3q9zU/s1600/HST58-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhlq0jLH-7w6fpjeK9UtKQc5VhRZ20uau5hzpTn3dZw6oDz2HviXgCMJ5qi6ZWbQBry90DlupSaE-to4UOXZxwjKFj5MwdGkJf8LzxCn86zy42SBcUng1asmggxjXNLNmUx9ntaV3q9zU/s1600/HST58-1.jpg" height="109" width="200" /></a>It was getting dark already, we opted to find a spot to pitch our tents, settle down and have some grub instead to end the day. Tomorrow, we will have first dibs on the hot springs tub in the morning.<br />
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There were several flat spots to pitch a tent but it was a fairly popular area, a lot of the good one were already taken. Bear boxes/ food lockers are available and an outhouse can be found a little ways far from the river, though neither any of us were brave enough to make use of it. I'll have my shovel, thanks!</div>
Oshiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14465513929689702140noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441758913129244733.post-87089233115758358032014-12-04T17:29:00.000-08:002015-01-20T15:57:51.883-08:00High Sierra Trail Part 3 - Big Hamilton Lake To Big Arroyo Junction<h4>
Day 3 : Big Hamilton Lake To Big Arroyo Junction - 6.5 miles; 1,320 feet elevation gain</h4>
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The sun shines today! Finally.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB_xqp0AggCywAw9P-lB4hoQeG60iuJ8Uy5opLdEELzkXmO87gS9pB4S2togMkJ07Iav9TE-3lIvMPSTiPLGHi7SiqD2EJDIBbywNK1-iKCGxfsnXUhnuVsVpsCxJbHVuZNlzdnhFyuYA/s1600/HST29.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB_xqp0AggCywAw9P-lB4hoQeG60iuJ8Uy5opLdEELzkXmO87gS9pB4S2togMkJ07Iav9TE-3lIvMPSTiPLGHi7SiqD2EJDIBbywNK1-iKCGxfsnXUhnuVsVpsCxJbHVuZNlzdnhFyuYA/s1600/HST29.1.jpg" height="320" title="Hamilton Lake Outhouse" width="240" /></a><br />
And it's Precipice Lake Day! The lake that started me planning this trip shenanigan that we embarked on. And we'll be climbing 3 miles and 2,000 feet for it.<br />
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We had plans of setting out early today so we can take a leisurely break at the lake, but got held at breakfast talking it up with one of the many very interesting hikers we would meet on this trip. And it is true, those whispers about the outdoor community, that we all can talk... a LOT.<br />
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We laughed, shared stories, backcountry finds, talks of home adventures with her. This was our first day getting sucked in the El Vortex, as we have dubbed the situation. Eventually, we would come to find out that it was hard to resist getting vacuumed into it.<br />
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Taking advantage of the El Vortex though, we actually got to properly dry our tents and other stuff that had been wet ever since we started the trip. They were all gloriously laid out in the open and letting the sun take all the moisture away.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrP540M5ALIkhc12Ly0KF3lv8wuEYMi3-n_ycEBV499cqjevvKp_K4jLWchac1tnP1k3FGVWyNX1nbvFUZbXe_NJGjlAXBcYqR6mSD3BKhUgADxx7xQf7fmrrbZ2NsVKdWf-6ZKyRwpnw/s1600/HST31.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrP540M5ALIkhc12Ly0KF3lv8wuEYMi3-n_ycEBV499cqjevvKp_K4jLWchac1tnP1k3FGVWyNX1nbvFUZbXe_NJGjlAXBcYqR6mSD3BKhUgADxx7xQf7fmrrbZ2NsVKdWf-6ZKyRwpnw/s1600/HST31.1.jpg" height="424" title="Back on the High Sierra Trail wih Hamilton Lake on the right." width="640" /></a></div>
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We bid adieu to our beautiful spot at Hamilton Lake. The trail continues on other side of Hamilton Creek and starts to climb up the exposed trail, where we saw the boy scout troop disappear to earlier that morning. Watching them over breakfast gave us an idea how high we were going to be for the first leg of the day's trip, mentally preparing us.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7M4UryxZcFxs_oospQDhauQCK4TGU6OZskz1hiG6Oxm55BmWM_TLrOFu-0NCa6uuTEJ1j7ucCThnzi4jft5IyQ_fVsoxw_es3rL6azRU1oHmyTSFDalMhjquR9j6cuVd1VfWvLTO4rZE/s1600/HST30.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7M4UryxZcFxs_oospQDhauQCK4TGU6OZskz1hiG6Oxm55BmWM_TLrOFu-0NCa6uuTEJ1j7ucCThnzi4jft5IyQ_fVsoxw_es3rL6azRU1oHmyTSFDalMhjquR9j6cuVd1VfWvLTO4rZE/s1600/HST30.1.jpg" height="212" title="Hamilton Lakes" width="640" /></a></div>
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Not even a mile in, our previous campsite seemed so far away already. We can spot it way down below us. After a few long and short switchbacks, the trail continues on and in one turn, reveals just how much effort was put into creating this trail. The Hamilton Gorge Tunnel was of amazing work. Kudos to the trail engineers and crews!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOgZQckHj4uSwDr_4d5c4M4PAUQr0AGZOzEDHhK7ntodLnatO4w_StGk7hD996TyGn_YLsxbt8iqHdZWI2K5xIZgBWX7pkB7r5YCt1Xe2Ez4BQQLGjZwA8tPTxtJ2Loo4RGRcxZY9Mfyg/s1600/HST32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOgZQckHj4uSwDr_4d5c4M4PAUQr0AGZOzEDHhK7ntodLnatO4w_StGk7hD996TyGn_YLsxbt8iqHdZWI2K5xIZgBWX7pkB7r5YCt1Xe2Ez4BQQLGjZwA8tPTxtJ2Loo4RGRcxZY9Mfyg/s1600/HST32.jpg" height="640" title="Hamilton Gorge Tunnel" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigehdf4IX18KtDtdUtm3Vmgx-2YmdnIl0IQQHmfgo3NjYKCtPKHBl7xM32YSAuezObBhl8r9wJ7RDc4uYUGhekdf1P6UA0V7feVyX88n5QJKnOwq-29iL7Us8GzYnEL9TNWu_TSwc44m0/s1600/HST33.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigehdf4IX18KtDtdUtm3Vmgx-2YmdnIl0IQQHmfgo3NjYKCtPKHBl7xM32YSAuezObBhl8r9wJ7RDc4uYUGhekdf1P6UA0V7feVyX88n5QJKnOwq-29iL7Us8GzYnEL9TNWu_TSwc44m0/s1600/HST33.1.jpg" height="196" title="Czarina and Ryan on the High Sierra Trail" width="640" /></a></div>
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Passing through the tunnel, the trail bends into a form of a horseshoe, and continues on, crossing a waterfall. This cascade of water must be a sight to see (and cross) after a good wet winter season would pass and would have a good amount of snow melt cascading down the slope.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSp34jN1hOKtd9DmUToHyQNdWS7Qw2u0wqdRwl4zAnC0OPAiJiY-5CwssnfnfnQ2_TU03o2KJwlueqiV-8a-mBqpD_LVdy9nf4l4jfHsw-V27tcfGzJmx22Z724Hvhj1Ad1vcFR2FYqbE/s1600/HST34.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSp34jN1hOKtd9DmUToHyQNdWS7Qw2u0wqdRwl4zAnC0OPAiJiY-5CwssnfnfnQ2_TU03o2KJwlueqiV-8a-mBqpD_LVdy9nf4l4jfHsw-V27tcfGzJmx22Z724Hvhj1Ad1vcFR2FYqbE/s1600/HST34.1.jpg" height="158" title="High Sierra Trail" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieJuK6LT70ljezazHyResjCnK7Jcn1m8M6KG2WM7H5J1gVpOkobQtVT1DkTJeGh01-aF7xvlI-Hf8IYSPV3LcJMlCwXs29beMOBLrBNWzNNeNi1ZMIjNegqn6X5K-hZ8-qOTyse2XRFg4/s1600/HST35.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieJuK6LT70ljezazHyResjCnK7Jcn1m8M6KG2WM7H5J1gVpOkobQtVT1DkTJeGh01-aF7xvlI-Hf8IYSPV3LcJMlCwXs29beMOBLrBNWzNNeNi1ZMIjNegqn6X5K-hZ8-qOTyse2XRFg4/s1600/HST35.1.jpg" height="150" title="Not Precipice Lake ;)" width="200" /></a>After about a mile or less, there's a body of water pretending to be the infamous Precipice Lake. But don't fooled by this impostor of beauty! Just kidding. Although it is truly not Precipice Lake just yet, it is still a beautiful lake. Well, all lakes are beautiful in my book, anyways. And although, it looks like it is a good spot to stop and take a break, the lake made famous by photographer Ansel Adams, is just close by. We only stopped here long enough to take a few goofy photos and gaze up where boulders are hiding our targeted lunch spot for the day.<br />
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We climbed a few feet more and could see the granite wall that I know is the backdrop of the lake I've been day dreaming about since.. forever. It was a tease. So close, yet so far was on repeat on my mind to prod my feet to keep on moving.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9_K1qL3tUxOxnQpnxSVqPqOCDArPJWBBZwuEYkVx4sqczWBs9RZXMRvrPoA6MRcONLTcvb8iX-wjXgNWmpybbP4cJnFry9lOIa5jL566be8gy8-pnbvpgntN1PCG7qdXDEW96PSljKO0/s1600/HST36.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9_K1qL3tUxOxnQpnxSVqPqOCDArPJWBBZwuEYkVx4sqczWBs9RZXMRvrPoA6MRcONLTcvb8iX-wjXgNWmpybbP4cJnFry9lOIa5jL566be8gy8-pnbvpgntN1PCG7qdXDEW96PSljKO0/s1600/HST36.1.jpg" height="526" title="So close, yet so far!" width="640" /></a></div>
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The first glimpse of water I saw, I ran the rest of the trail that remains between me and the lake. Found a good spot away a little off the trail and closer to the water. Unceremoniously dropped my pack and didn't care what the rest of the day will bring at this point. In my mind, I have arrived. 10,200 feet from sea level and away from civilization, I am at Precipice Lake.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKyRYBrpEGm8HA94XIBw8zRzSGbI36nmWZ8UYjwRwDqu1DS8fsoCNldxJf6ipBoKUZvqlWbI785STBAsh_0s_Wr9PV1-SQemWjRM_efS6EIQtvna1PxoKxez19OxxIgTuE1f-dMh0qdsY/s1600/HST37.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKyRYBrpEGm8HA94XIBw8zRzSGbI36nmWZ8UYjwRwDqu1DS8fsoCNldxJf6ipBoKUZvqlWbI785STBAsh_0s_Wr9PV1-SQemWjRM_efS6EIQtvna1PxoKxez19OxxIgTuE1f-dMh0qdsY/s1600/HST37.1.jpg" height="480" title="Precipice Lake" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY3fZ0MX96lez7ROsy0xsHJBRYPdO9nAz_j2CNSsepbIGICr8qIIfr9IVBYO246Z99wVMT6nl43fCr07wj7be0-usTnSSR_x25W472PVBuxL0sCuF5hA9lKB_484MSWx-0LuIZKqkFcg4/s1600/HST38.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY3fZ0MX96lez7ROsy0xsHJBRYPdO9nAz_j2CNSsepbIGICr8qIIfr9IVBYO246Z99wVMT6nl43fCr07wj7be0-usTnSSR_x25W472PVBuxL0sCuF5hA9lKB_484MSWx-0LuIZKqkFcg4/s1600/HST38.1.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a>We had a leisurely stop here for lunch, naps and some photo overload. The colors on the lake were constantly changing as the sun started to play hide and seek among the clouds. We would have stayed longer if the clouds didn't didn't completely decided to hide the sun from us. And thick clouds then started to cover the peaks above. Wind started to pick up a bit, as well, so we unwillingly collected our lunch spread, filtered more water and hopped our way back on the trail. It was still a 400 feet climb to Kaweah Gap with a very short distance to hike before we can start our 1,300 feet descent.</div>
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Most of the climb was at the start and once we lost sight of the now gloomy looking Precipice Lake, the trail became more forgiving on our legs. We passed a couple of lakes before finding ourselves on Kawaeah Gap.</div>
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The view of the Nine Lakes Basis was so grandeur standing at the base of Mount Stewart on Kaweah Gap. A plaque for Col. George W. Stewart, named as the <a href="http://www.sequoiaparksfoundation.org/2010/historic-people-and-places-george-w-stewart/" target="_blank">"Father of Sequoia National Park"</a> was placed here by the National Park Service in his honor.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvNoc7_epJW7RKcUVOGOS3W0FurmMNV5-zkGnDwVTAYg0gmee7oOPCoF8moWWci2f_rblrX-5A0ZOQ7OSQ0E8siu8YA24pcTKVeVdv7bx9PiIpJ2F74ElV9fX2gZEmucMJBFoDYpMNm4Y/s1600/HST40.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvNoc7_epJW7RKcUVOGOS3W0FurmMNV5-zkGnDwVTAYg0gmee7oOPCoF8moWWci2f_rblrX-5A0ZOQ7OSQ0E8siu8YA24pcTKVeVdv7bx9PiIpJ2F74ElV9fX2gZEmucMJBFoDYpMNm4Y/s1600/HST40.1.jpg" height="300" title="Plaque for Col. George W. Stewart, Father of Sequoia National Park." width="400" /></a></div>
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The trail continues along a few switchbacks, descending on to the valley, a grand open space with the Big Arroyo running in the middle of it. Descending, I felt like we were in a cartoon of dog-cat-mouse chase. We found ourselves chasing the blue skies just ahead of us while dark ominous clouds were not that far behind us, nipping at our heels.<br />
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The trail eventually flattens and follows the river downstream most of the way, then eventually crossing it and continuing on through to enter a thickening wooded area. Water level was low at the crossing but as expected, freezing.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgOns3m6xX26nff5XqqVSV8lGN5onaZrrryZesw0GMAad6VpYYznpGU51o1anrkHDY2_X0s7nShc6c0QiuW_cxy6XDlXLvT8GFdZ1f-Q31WES8wunejpqvCk6fOTjgB_wW-o_ppbcx6iY/s1600/HST42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgOns3m6xX26nff5XqqVSV8lGN5onaZrrryZesw0GMAad6VpYYznpGU51o1anrkHDY2_X0s7nShc6c0QiuW_cxy6XDlXLvT8GFdZ1f-Q31WES8wunejpqvCk6fOTjgB_wW-o_ppbcx6iY/s1600/HST42.jpg" height="424" title="Water crossing on the way to Big Arroyo junction!" width="640" /></a></div>
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The trail splits with the right fork directing to the Big Arroyo Patrol Cabin and the left fork continuing on the High Sierra Trail. Leaving the left fork for tomorrow's journey, we made our way to our home for the night.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih3YR_qg-0Ho1Pb28kvTJ1_72c7gsWooHltK-NhJYG2KBsowDi6q198DmTBsoXaKupYlMrQjE-BMdciM64HtLfhylkfu94vnUYABbORtaZTzaGdwszNdNYKHtpsb4hOxGkWdmbv0ITggk/s1600/HST42.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih3YR_qg-0Ho1Pb28kvTJ1_72c7gsWooHltK-NhJYG2KBsowDi6q198DmTBsoXaKupYlMrQjE-BMdciM64HtLfhylkfu94vnUYABbORtaZTzaGdwszNdNYKHtpsb4hOxGkWdmbv0ITggk/s1600/HST42.1.jpg" height="480" title="We're here! Big Arroyo Patrol Cabin." width="640" /></a></div>
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Several camp sites can be found just beyond the Big Arroyo Patrol Cabin. There are food lockers in this area. And for the hammock campers, lots of trees to hang your bed for the night. We waved to a few campers we've met and leaped-frogged along the trail, and found a <i>cushion-y</i> spot to pitch our tents. Mosquitoes have not been a problem since we started this trip. Probably due to the dry winter we've previously had. With that in mind, we still had a good number of mosquitoes pestering us here. I can only imagine what's it like during a normal season, in the beginning of August.</div>
Oshiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14465513929689702140noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441758913129244733.post-49030870488582954192014-11-13T16:40:00.000-08:002014-11-13T16:40:40.977-08:00High Sierra Trail Part 2 - Buck Creek Crossing to Big Hamilton Lake<h3>
Day 2 Buck Creek Crossing to Big Hamilton Lake - 6 miles; 980 ft elevation gain</h3>
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Short mileage day today!<br />
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We awoke this morning to sounds of a few early hikers trudging along the trail, just a bit above our camp. By breakfast, more hikers were hiking by. Waved and raised our coffee cups to them in greeting. Some we recognized from meeting the day before and had camped out at Nine Mile Creek.</div>
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Given that we pushed those extra miles yesterday, today was going to be a short one for us.. 6 miles! We were not at all in a hurry. We savored breakfast before taking down camp. Our camp neighbors, who were using this spot as a base camp, have already gone to do some exploring.</div>
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The sky was still overcast by the time we were leaving, still no sign of some sunshine! Packs on our backs, we did a final sweep of our camp, making sure no gear nor trash got left behind. Gotta practice those ninja skills and leave nothing behind to incriminate that we were ever there!<br />
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Hopped back on the trail. We crossed Buck Creek on a wooden bridge.. more like a platform, really. Then the trail just immediately started going straight up ascending to take us out of Buck Canyon! Talk about a warm up! That woke me up more than coffee!</div>
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After climbing about a couple of steep switchbacks, the trail lets up to a gradual climb before eventually flattening and then we found ourselves surrounded by trees.<br />
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A mile and some 600 feet higher later, we started smelling something baking - oh it was pure torture knowing we can't stay and have some of those fresh baked goods! We have arrived at the Bearpaw Campground, the High Sierra Camp of Sequoia National Park located at 7,820 feet. A place for <i>glamping</i> at its finest. Trust.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3eDEuxoyRoTo-xeAOgwNHagkOsVAQbatRarcwhdJmRr-Xf5MAVsDEYDmfG9E1Cbul1vEFRh_pKO9JqXaWjn6wmEtzuigdMGSO5BNRha9J6S9Ck_iZ0j48Z_xLvSBOoIZHIurl3bShgKM/s1600/HST13-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3eDEuxoyRoTo-xeAOgwNHagkOsVAQbatRarcwhdJmRr-Xf5MAVsDEYDmfG9E1Cbul1vEFRh_pKO9JqXaWjn6wmEtzuigdMGSO5BNRha9J6S9Ck_iZ0j48Z_xLvSBOoIZHIurl3bShgKM/s1600/HST13-2.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a><br />
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A little description of Bearpaw High Sierra Camp and its difference from its sister high sierra camps over at Yosemite (an information of what I've gathered ever since I started eyeing this place):</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Straight on, past the ranger station (right) the HST continues.</td></tr>
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<li style="text-align: left;">Bearpaw High Sierra Camp has 6 tent cabins, equipped with a couple of twin beds with bedding, too!</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Included in your stay are your breakfast and dinner meals served family-style - lunches and alcoholic beverages purchased separately.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Staying here needs an advance reservation. While unlike the high sierra camps at Yosemite, you do not need to enter any lottery in hopes of getting picked to be able to make that reservation.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Also unlike it's sister high sierra, when there's just 2 of you staying, you don't get to be paired with other people to share a tent cabin with. You book it, it's yours and yours alone.But note that lodging is limited to 6 tents, chances are availability is hard to come by so best be ready when reservations start becoming available for the next season.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">And as of 2014 price is at $175 per night, per person - totally, not cheap.</li>
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If I ever get to becoming old, retired and/or filthy rich, apart from my regular backpacking, I'd stay there every summer for at least a week and not worry about anything else but getting myself there and bringing clothes and books to read! I'll stroll that 11.5 miles all day with practically almost nothing on my back. Oh to dream.<br />
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But I digress.<br />
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Back on the current adventure!<br />
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We stopped for a bit here as the views by the main hall were spectacular, even with low clouds rolling and still overcast. We had a quick chat with a some folks who were staying at the High Sierra Camp. We got forewarned of a bear in the direction we were headed.<br />
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A few quick pictures here and there and we were back on the trail. We didn't get to see that bear though, much to Joe and Ryan's disappointment. They were on a sub-mission to see a bear in the backcountry on this trip.<br />
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One thing this trip is never going to be short on.. are the VIEWS! (Yes, in all caps.) Amidst the clouds, the Great Western Divide will be watching us as we trek along to our next destination: Hamilton Lakes. And down below us is Middle Fork Kaweah River, which can barely be seen, probably a combination of the low clouds, mist and this year's drought that the water is not flowing well or maybe we're just too high up or maybe 'cause I'm far-sighted - I'll go for the latter.<br />
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The trail continues along the ridge before it starts to descend to about 400 feet to cross Lone Pine Creek. On our hike down, wincing on my bothersome right knee ( minor injury from a recent face plant, <i>kiss-the-ground-while-you-are-down-ther</i>e fall on a previous trip), I still practically ran the rest of the way down as soon as I saw the first glimpse of a bridge.<br />
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I think bridges are amazing! And even more amazing are backcountry bridges. It's in the middle of nowhere! Lugging the materials alone must have been a chore on its own. Then you still gotta build it! A couple of hikers, who we saw taking a quick rest at Bearpaw, had their camp chairs popped up and were having their lunch break on the other side of the bridge. Yup, they sure had their lunch with a view!<br />
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We dilly-dallied for a bit, looking over one side of the bridge.. then the other. Taking pictures. Prolonging to deal with the inevitable climb we still have to slog through before we can properly prop our feet up and relax the rest of the day away. Below the bridge, we saw traces of probably remnants of the befallen old steel bridge that was once used to cross here.<br />
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We continued on, as the bridge, now behind us, started looking smaller and smaller as we climbed up. We did a quick rest stop at the Tamarack Lake junction to shed some layers. Blue sky started appearing but it was short-lived. As we kept climbing up, thick clouds started covering up the sky again (bye bye blue!). I kept looking up watching, observing. We were keeping attentive in case we need to haul it out there. We were on an exposed environment, did not want to get caught out there if thunder and lightning decide to party it out.<br />
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Following the very well maintained trail, we eventually found our way atop the Hamilton Creek waterfall we've been admiring from afar. And got to see a little ways below from where we had come from. We could actually make out the trail that led us down to the bridge at Lone Pine Creek from where we were standing.<br />
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One of us finally put a halt on our goofing around, so we continued on. But just before leaving the top of the falls, we came across our former camp neighbors from Buck Creek. They were already on their way back from Hamilton Lakes.</div>
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The trail continued on up till we came up to a sign that indicated we were finally at Hamilton Lakes. A few feet beyond the sign is a spur trail turning right and leading to one of the best viewed outhouses I've seen. I could sit there all day.. but I'd probably need to breathe at some point. It's a pit toilet. And guessing the amount of visitors this area gets.. yeah, I'll leave it at that.<br />
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The lake and campsites are further down to the left of the trail, past the spur trail to the pit toilet. There are 3 food lockers in the vicinity. The largest one is right close to the trail going towards the lake There is one closer by the lake, in the middle of a big clearing. The other by a few camp spots above the lake.<br />
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Joe was the first to get there. When the rest of us followed, we saw a large group of boy scouts already set-up amongst other campers who are also already set-up. Sites were plenty, but so were campers. We did get advised it was a popular spot. And looking around, we understand why. It had all the perfect formula of a good camp spot: a beautiful lake, flat spots, boulders strewn around, trees, and a clear, unobstructed view of the sky.<br />
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In our quest to find us a better spot to camp, away from the big boy scout group, we found a few cozy places perfect for one or two people, above and a little bit further from the lake than we'd like. Though we couldn't utilize it ourselves, we were able to pass it on to other smaller group of hikers.<br />
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That evening, we were blessed with clear skies. And with the generosity of other campers with their information, we were able to observe the International Space Station float across directly above us. That was a pretty cool experience! I totally geek-ed out on that one, Not a science nerd myself, just a little human being always easily amazed by amazing things.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our only decent photo of the International Space Station passing by.</td></tr>
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Oshiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14465513929689702140noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441758913129244733.post-7357913959755643372014-11-05T16:02:00.002-08:002015-05-08T16:35:09.267-07:00High Sierra Trail Part 1 - Lodgepole Campground, Wolverton to Buck Creek Crossing<h3>
Day Zero: Los Angeles, CA to Lodgepole Campground, Sequoia National Park: 225 miles (drive) - 6,467 feet elevation gain</h3>
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Saturday morning, we all met up at my cousin Chris', who was dropping us off at the Sequoia NP side of our trip. Czarina coming from Northern CA, already spent the night there. Joe, who arrived the previous night from Las Vegas, and I were dropped off by Kari. And Ryan, who was also coming from SGV (like me!), also got dropped off. The Quartet have converged!<br />
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We left Los Angeles at 9:00 a.m., with the <i>intention</i> of leaving at 7 a.m. I blame my weak resistance to my uncle's usual Saturday breakfast spread of eggs, garlic fried rice and bacon! (nom). We loaded up Chris' car, bid Kari goodbye, and left her our itinerary for the entire week for safety, since she's the one who'll be picking us up a week later at Whitney Portal (I always love our reunions when I adventure sans her, days of missing her is <i>a sight for sore eyes</i>!).<br />
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The drive up to Sequoia National Park was, as always, beautiful. No matter how many times I have made this travel up to the park (Trivia: it's our favorite National Park!), I never tire of this journey. The change from busy L.A. traffic with views of concrete buildings, to views of endless farmlands, then to the hills and mountains that loom closer and closer, and then the views of the valley down below as you continue the drive up to the park. It always still amazes me.<br />
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After a not-so-quick lunch at <i>The Corner Cafe</i> in Visalia (awesome diner food if you're in the area, by the way!) and a stop by the Giant Forest area in the park, where we saw a bear roaming around the lower parking lot, we arrived at the Lodgepole campground and opted to pick up a box of pizza at the Lodgepole Market to bring over to our campsite for dinner, while we do pack shakedowns.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pizza Pack Shakedown.. but first a pic!<br />
The starting cast (from upper right): Me, Ryan, Joe, Czarina,<br />
and featuring: Chris.</td></tr>
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At camp, we set-up the tent that we were all going to be squishing in to for the night and then undid all the packing we each did at our respective homes. Surveyed our packs' previous contents and each other's, deciding what needs to be left behind and if we missed to consolidate anything. By dusk, we've all repacked our backpacks and happy with all our starting pack weights for tomorrow. Joe, I think, was the happiest, he shed almost 10 lbs from his pack! Which enabled him to borrow Chris' camp chair and for which he was grateful to have had on the trail!<br />
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Done with re-packing, we gathered up some wood for a campfire and huddled around for a bit before calling it an early night. Early day the next day, permit pick up at 7:00 a.m. at the Visitor Center, and us girls were determined to have one last shower with indoor plumbing at the Lodgepole Market.<br />
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<h3>
Day 1: Wolverton Trailhead to Buck Creek Crossing: 10 miles - 100 feet elevation loss</h3>
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We awoke to a light drizzle at our campsite Sunday morning (jump off day!) but no rain, drizzle or wet ground was going to damper us on this day, Day 1 of our High Sierra Trail adventure!</div>
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We were promptly at the wilderness desk by 7:00 a.m. and already there was a small crowd gathered, picking up permits for various trails. The permit issuer noticed the small crowd and decided to grab everyone's attention and did the mandatory review of park backcountry rules altogether (smart move on her part! Otherwise she'd be like a broken record for the next 20 mins).<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No rain. No heat. No hail. No sleet.<br />
Shall keep these hikers off their feet!<br />
- inspired by the postman's creed</td></tr>
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After receiving our permit, the guys had gone ahead to grab breakfast and us girls went straight to the shower room armed with quarters before catching with them for breakfast. Showered and bellies full with breakfast burritos, we took the short drive to our trailhead at Wolverton, the alternate starting point for the High Sierra Trail. The Lake/Alta Trail from Wolverton connects with the High Sierra Trail at almost the same distance as starting at Crescent Meadow.<br />
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The drizzle started to come down harder (but not a downpour just yet!), as soon as Chris put the car on park. Mother Nature wanted to send us off to a wet start! After some obligatory, not-so-pretty, getting-drenched-now, <i>"before photos"</i>, we said goodbye to Chris, gave last minute directions going home, and thanked him profusely. And off we go to have a wet 'n wild day!<br />
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On the Lakes Trail, we met a few hikers heading out. We all bid each other quick hello's and happy trail wishes, couldn't stop for a chat lest we get ourselves more wet. In theory, figured movement can keep us from getting soaked. Might be true, considering the sooner we get to camp, the sooner we can get sheltered!<br />
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At about a mile and a half, we hit the trail junction, with the left fork continuing on the Lakes Trail to lakes Heather, Aster (<i>both no camping</i>), Emerald and Pear. We took the right fork in the direction of Alta Peak that meets up with the High Sierra Trail. We came across a couple of "<i>hoppable"</i> downed trees on the trail, and after a steep last stretch, arrived at beautiful Panther's Gap. The sun was still not showing herself and the clouds were flying low, but still Panther's Gap has an awe inspiring view (Note to self: Come back on this spot, on a blue bird.)<br />
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We will be graced with this incredible view for majority of this day's hike. A mile more to go to the Alta Peak junction. Then 2.2 miles more to Mehrten Creek that'll get us on the High Sierra Trail. The rain had let up a bit, though the air was still damp, still lots of moisture.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alta Peak and Mehrten Creek Junction</td></tr>
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The trees have started getting thicker, we eventually found ourselves at the Mehrten Creek junction. We're now, finally, <i>on</i> the High Sierra Trail! We still had 2 miles from this point to get to our destination for the day: Nine Mile Creek, where there's a standard sized bear box.<br />
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Low rolling clouds accompanied and entertained us along the trail. They were like curtains teasing us, giving us sneak peeks of the valley below us. I could easily just sit on a cliff's edge and get lost watching the clouds roll in.. thicken.. cover a peak then roll back and reveal what it hid. Find the inner kid in us and play a game of peek-a-boo with nature.<br />
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Arriving at Nine Mile Creek, some of the hikers we met along the trail have either, already settled in or are settling in and pitching camp. It appeared to be a small area and already getting filled up. We debated and considered that we still have enough sunlight left to push on 2 more miles, but the ranger also mentioned that Buck Creek Crossing was also a small camp area. We took our chances armed with the thought that we'll have 2 miles less to hike for Day 2.<br />
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As the trail started going steeply downward, down below, we caught a glimpse of a large bear box, 2 small tents pitched up close by and Joe (who went ahead of us) waving frantically, looking ready to scream <i>"Land ho!"</i>. We finally arrived at our first camp site for the week, Buck Creek Crossing! With still enough day light (though overcast!) to set up camp, have dinner, clean up and water prep for the morning. Caffeinated hikers in the morning is a primary mission to start the day.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coming down to Buck Creek Crossing. Spot us?</td></tr>
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Buck Creek Crossing has 4 camp sites. We didn't see any markers to indicate each sites, but the clearings are evident. There are 3 small ones close to the shared large bear box. Each with space for one 2-3 person tent, cozy if you pitch two. And 1 large space when you round the corner after the 3rd site, enough to fit 2 tents comfortably, 3 if you don't mind being cozy. Too tired and eager to get on dry clothing to be picky, we settled on the 3rd space and ended up pitching 2 of our group's 3 tents for our first day. Confession: we only found the bigger, 4th space after the tents were already up. <i>Womp womp womp</i>.<br />
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There is a community fire pit by sites 1 and 2, like what the ranger who gave us our permit mentioned. But we did find a fire ring on the bigger camp space, though it look to be more "camper made".</div>
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After dinner, we stayed out longer campfire-less, talking, re-capping the day's events and the people we've met, some who were also doing the High Sierra Trail like us and wondered if we'll cross paths with them again since we're slow hikers, generous photo takers, major time wasters in gazing around, big chit-chatters and generally cannot eat trail food while in motion.</div>
Oshiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14465513929689702140noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441758913129244733.post-55356726527075064052014-09-23T15:27:00.000-07:002015-05-26T10:51:18.134-07:00Rae Lakes Loop - Kings Canyon National ParkWithin the rugged back country of majestic Kings Canyon National Park, lies a beautiful 46 mile hike popularly known as the Rae Lakes Loop.<br />
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This hike has been on my ever-growing to-do list, since I ever started one. I have applied, gotten approved and cancelled a permit a couple of times due to various reasons before finally being able to complete it and then repeated. Because it's such a beautiful hike, I'd still do it all over again! The first trip was my doing and the second was an invite, and on both occasions doing the same direction and same length of days.<br />
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The loop can be done by either a clockwise direction or a counter clockwise, which I think both have its merits. I haven't completed a counter clockwise of this hike, but have hiked up to a certain point in that direction and camped at about 8 miles in.<br />
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The itinerary posted below will feature the more popular clockwise route.<br />
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Even though the trail is described as a loop, it is more of a "lollipop" kind of route. It still starts and ends at the same point, but the full circle meets with another 2 more miles to the trail head.<br />
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This hike can be done in lengths dependent on your preference of what you'd like out of the trip. I've heard of hikers doing this loop in 24 hours, some have done as an overnight. But for a more leisurely pace, 5 days is just about right and 7 days is luxurious. We had more than enough days to soak in everything with both our 7 day trips.<br />
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I'll be posting a chart below to summarize our daily mileage and elevation loss and gains with information to help plans yours!<br />
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<h3>
Permit</h3>
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The clockwise route, via Woods Creek Trail, is the more popular route due to the elevation you'll gain is somewhat easier than the counter clockwise route. To give a visual, on your first 8 mile hike via the clockwise route, you'd have gained about 1,600 feet of elevation. Whereas, doing the counter clockwise route, via Bubbs Creek Trail, your first 8 miles gains you about 2,225 feet elevation.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAPUdWKoY8gr5oFSzZ8wcJIN69hymPpPBS53oLskIf67QmA0IiezlmuCzrFfpAH5SUEZ7pshx8cjAOuyBhDtZl1BUY8gr9WABwIrV7qIakKLkD7xj-pw0aiDI_1yDyI6nI8KK51NweGJs/s1600/PERMITAPP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAPUdWKoY8gr5oFSzZ8wcJIN69hymPpPBS53oLskIf67QmA0IiezlmuCzrFfpAH5SUEZ7pshx8cjAOuyBhDtZl1BUY8gr9WABwIrV7qIakKLkD7xj-pw0aiDI_1yDyI6nI8KK51NweGJs/s1600/PERMITAPP.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
Given its popularity and if doing this hike during the peak, quota period, I strongly recommend submitting your permit applications very well in advance. I'm a stickler for this and send applications on the first day the park service opens their calendars for reservations, which is usually th 1st day of March. There are no phone reservations nor online (yet), all are required to submit via fax or mail.<br />
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I mail. I love old school mail and I love stamps!<br />
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Here's a link for a copy of the permit: <a href="http://www.nps.gov/seki/planyourvisit/upload/2014-Wilderness-permit-application_20140411-2.pdf" target="_blank">Wilderness Permit Application</a>. Please read the instructions carefully and make sure to fill out your other choices of entry dates (or places, if you prefer), in case the first doesn't pan out.<br />
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Weather</h3>
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Here's a link to NOAA's website, pinpointed on the area at the start of the loop trail. Pan the map on the right hand side to get an updated weather report on a specific area of the loop.</div>
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<a href="http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=36.79691428429659&lon=-118.57698440551758#.VNJ4Dp3F9n9" target="_blank">Rae Lakes Loop's Weather @ 36.79691428429659, -118.57698440551758</a></div>
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<h3>
Food Storage</h3>
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Bear canisters are required in this area. Bring them if you already own one or rent one from several places, like your local REI store, Bearikade rents their product through their website, or you can also rent one from the Road's End permit station.</div>
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On hindsight, I should have rented one from the permit station and left my Garcia. From observation, I think the permit station rents out the ever so light Bearikade!</div>
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Although there are available bear/food lockers located by the popular places camp sites to use, these lockers should not always be relied upon. They can get filled up fast for several reasons, and especially on areas with high foot traffic and along the trail where thru-hikers pass.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj595c_bOIlQqQYwYEDtxk_NjEPurpweCzcPT6uS0HHN997QaKcFWt2b_CN7jd9R5SEMn3GCnSYRTKl7UWaG4_9HLRxOLTCcD0-Qgwt6aIveVWbTx2M6DIwWoZey3yKv5BI76x8gNAz29s/s1600/RaeLake51.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj595c_bOIlQqQYwYEDtxk_NjEPurpweCzcPT6uS0HHN997QaKcFWt2b_CN7jd9R5SEMn3GCnSYRTKl7UWaG4_9HLRxOLTCcD0-Qgwt6aIveVWbTx2M6DIwWoZey3yKv5BI76x8gNAz29s/s1600/RaeLake51.jpg" title="Rae Lake with Fin Dome" width="640" /></a></div>
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<h3>
Getting there</h3>
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Kings Canyon National Park is in central California. The entrance can be accessed via the CA SR-180 in Fresno, CA. If you do not have a National Parks Annual (or Senior) Pass, the entrance fee to the park is $20 for one vehicle (all passengers included) or $5 per person on foot/bike, and it's valid for 7 days.<br />
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Head on straight past the entrance and take the left fork on the road when you get to the "Y". Drive straight along the 180/General's Highway and enjoy the 45 minute scenic drive to <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Roads+End+Permit+Station/@36.794724,-118.582662,17z/data=!4m7!1m4!3m3!1s0x80bfd97daa00f057:0x624b1a92721ef6b5!2sRoads+End+Permit+Station!3b1!3m1!1s0x80bfd97daa00f057:0x624b1a92721ef6b5" target="_blank">Roads End</a>.<br />
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There are several camp grounds along the route if you'd like to arrive a day or 2 before your jump off day to acclimate especially if you're coming from sea level (like us!). And some camp grounds have coin operated shower facilities (get those quarters ready!) for those who'd like to have a last shower before giving up indoor plumbing for a few days.<br />
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Our itinerary</h3>
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<a href="http://hikeeatcamp.blogspot.com/2014/09/rae-lakes-loop-part-1-roads-end-to.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeIgpsN5sQPXfW0iIt0PucGueiAp-hw8l4zV-TMwSXi5k2u9jdX6jpcjzlY7ySRECZ_MbgHvpAyh3O7wM5fdUlKcSZUKUsflM7R77NIlVfrwn7jZHH-y1jX6Hl-Y3FC3xE34aUkdJFv4g/s1600/MistFalls.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://hikeeatcamp.blogspot.com/2014/09/rae-lakes-loop-part-1-roads-end-to.html" target="_blank">Road's End to Middle Paradise Valley: 8 miles - 1,596 feet of elevation gain</a></div>
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<a href="http://hikeeatcamp.blogspot.com/2014/09/rae-lakes-loop-part-2-middle-paradise.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpTTN3Ka-c_O4VZmmxBa7pEGr0isW7911dF8JZv1HXGN4LRZa3AueJbzTOv0SWnYJV7YaD9XyH888sIp7BV5J29DZfZ81sPANfxNu140ae4I6HLDm224ZuMhtllJsqgnGwjEvWE3O9nSo/s1600/ParadiseBridge.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://hikeeatcamp.blogspot.com/2014/09/rae-lakes-loop-part-2-middle-paradise.html" target="_blank">Middle Paradise Valley to Woods Creek Crossing: 9 miles - 1,584 feet elevation gain</a></div>
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<a href="http://hikeeatcamp.blogspot.com/2014/09/rae-lakes-loop-part-3-woods-creek.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJL80FqbUUazpgEOv5Cc5qZwuhNf8KypK71u5GojA-l4jvld0oMLFm4Tc19NrDb90Bqv4X-A4bKcBAo3IF_ISqxwOtjNMladUbg2MROq10bCT6HyX3eVzyOGF4Jk3BD8S_kiWK6fnH3Uk/s1600/RaeLake32.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://hikeeatcamp.blogspot.com/2014/09/rae-lakes-loop-part-3-woods-creek.html" target="_blank">Woods Creek Crossing to Rae Lake: 8 miles - 2,096 feet elevation gain</a></div>
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<a href="http://hikeeatcamp.blogspot.com/2014/09/rae-lakes-loop-part-4-rae-lakes-glen.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCCVP5u7dxUmNUa4dpHRsgDYg25rRT4Eza4-wcltb9fyBiseG48mojg5Uy_R_EEmhsj-If2-jBSTcBxUGOtAdgv4nBvH8X2DJt9PR8iy12MHoagRbG3G0aVHpoe2sQYmBeMgezSTJPDZw/s1600/RaeLake39.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="http://hikeeatcamp.blogspot.com/2014/09/rae-lakes-loop-part-4-rae-lakes-glen.html" target="_blank">Rae Lake, Glen Pass to Charlotte Creek: 13.5 miles - 1,382 feet elevation gain/ 4,718 feet elevation loss</a></div>
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<a href="http://hikeeatcamp.blogspot.com/2014/09/rae-lakes-loop-part-5-charlotte-creek.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhjpAS6xLjmp5YTkt5RFTjdqVmTXrh0NVav_B2i67xAmX2tmuQ1AOm8IhjQsc-ec12zoReB9BAfTGyTEdj6pFrv_-j91R6UfT6tSDLf17tZYZBAAhLCqT96QaRQIATqZfqoQo7NlMAnj0/s1600/RaeLake49.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://hikeeatcamp.blogspot.com/2014/09/rae-lakes-loop-part-5-charlotte-creek.html" target="_blank">Charlotte Creek to Roads End: 7.5 miles - 2,225 feet elevation loss</a></div>
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<tr class="tableizer-firstrow"><th>POINT/ LOCATION</th><th>ELEVATION [IN FEET]</th><th>MILES FROM ROADS END</th><th>ELEV FROM LAST POINT</th><th>MILEAGE FROM LAST POINT</th><th>NOTES</th></tr>
<tr><td>TH - Road's End</td><td>5,035</td><td>0.0</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>Paradise/ Bubbs Creek Junction</td><td>5,035</td><td>2.0</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>Mist Falls</td><td>5,663</td><td>4.0</td><td></td><td></td><td>No camping</td></tr>
<tr><td>Lower Paradise Valley</td><td>6,600</td><td>6.0</td><td></td><td></td><td>Standard bear box</td></tr>
<tr><td>Middle Paradise Valley</td><td>6,631</td><td>8.0</td><td>1,596</td><td>8.0</td><td>Standard bear box</td></tr>
<tr><td>Upper Paradise Valley</td><td>6,916</td><td>11.0</td><td></td><td></td><td>Large + Standard bear box</td></tr>
<tr><td>Castle Dome Meadow</td><td>8,173</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>Woods Creek Crossing</td><td>8,500</td><td>17.0</td><td>1,584</td><td>9.0</td><td>Standard bear box</td></tr>
<tr><td>Dollar Lake/ Arrowhead Lake</td><td>10,300</td><td>22.0</td><td></td><td></td><td>Standard bear box @ Arrowhead</td></tr>
<tr><td>Lower Rae Lake</td><td>10,538</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>Rae Lakes</td><td>10,596</td><td>25.0</td><td>2,096</td><td>8.0</td><td>Large + Standard bear box</td></tr>
<tr><td>Glen Pass</td><td>11,978</td><td>27.5</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>Charlotte Lake Junction</td><td>10,619</td><td>30.0</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>Vidette Meadow</td><td>9,629</td><td>32.0</td><td></td><td></td><td>Standard bear box</td></tr>
<tr><td>Lower Vidette Meadow</td><td>9,482</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>Junction Meadow</td><td>8,156</td><td>35.0</td><td></td><td></td><td>Standard bear box</td></tr>
<tr><td>Charlotte Creek</td><td>7,260</td><td>38.5</td><td>-4,718</td><td>13.5</td><td>Standard bear box</td></tr>
<tr><td>Sphinx Creek Junction</td><td>6,316</td><td>42.0</td><td></td><td></td><td>Standard bear box</td></tr>
<tr><td>Paradise/ Bubbs Creek Junction</td><td>5,035</td><td>44.0</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr>
<tr><td>TH - Road's End</td><td>5,035</td><td>46.0</td><td>-2,225</td><td>7.5</td><td></td></tr>
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Oshiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14465513929689702140noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441758913129244733.post-82060613938339071742014-09-17T15:20:00.000-07:002014-09-18T12:04:42.062-07:00Rae Lakes Loop Part 5: Charlotte Creek to Roads End<h3>
Charlotte Creek to Roads End: 7.5 miles - 2,225 feet elevation loss</h3>
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Trudged back up on the trail then crossing Charlotte Creek, the last leg of the trip begins.</div>
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We gradually climb down to Sphinx Creek Junction. The trail follows the the flow of Bubbs Creek on the left of us. 4 miles later, we arrive at the junction. There's a sign pointing to the direction of getting to Avalanche Pass and Roaring River, where you can find a bridge to cross Bubbs Creek and continue on that trail.<br />
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This is also another camp site here that offers a more tucked away area from the trail than Charlotte Creek's. The trail to camp is on the right (when you're coming out). The camp also has a bear/food locker to share among the other campers.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg06TJ9tRGsEJdFt8tl3pnOt0UlluyJjoeZjLwA96ZYvvG4rJvlIS6NdKc8InSp1v4QJS_x8Ef3NV6OxCU7kO2vwJfRJXCnl7zaBHohMVxlB8V0tTgKhYNcPEgt8S9xpW0x1JCFHRC7POw/s1600/RaeLake45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg06TJ9tRGsEJdFt8tl3pnOt0UlluyJjoeZjLwA96ZYvvG4rJvlIS6NdKc8InSp1v4QJS_x8Ef3NV6OxCU7kO2vwJfRJXCnl7zaBHohMVxlB8V0tTgKhYNcPEgt8S9xpW0x1JCFHRC7POw/s1600/RaeLake45.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lookin' like a Sphinx up top, no?</td></tr>
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<br />I love this part of the trail, pass the Sphinx Creek Junction. The ground is softly padded by the leaves that have fallen on the ground, on one side the mountain slopes down and the trees branches spread out like a canopy as you walk under.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcA74fMCAUteCAi44FCHEstIHy8-n0R3fDo2oH9zJElN6BEsC163q6lxzg0kTBld6ngnK2SMEWcrVxyiwYdRsnaLXFd8SkXiFBd2pK5iIYJsqvuqydz34tlIhLX_K_PzwUe25ppmeLjJY/s1600/RaeLake46.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcA74fMCAUteCAi44FCHEstIHy8-n0R3fDo2oH9zJElN6BEsC163q6lxzg0kTBld6ngnK2SMEWcrVxyiwYdRsnaLXFd8SkXiFBd2pK5iIYJsqvuqydz34tlIhLX_K_PzwUe25ppmeLjJY/s1600/RaeLake46.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Not long after, the trail changes into a more rocky ground with views of the valley in front of us. Then the switchback down begins. It's switchback after switchback to get back down to the trail head.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEGLJpb9b-9BO4xEba6RP65eKVFjr_RUcv9yuMDuwy-2wMGiIVUKDifoix9juK0xn1DP-4WzZjDxHqPJR0dKamEmTqjh2AfYdCf57WWJfg03smKl6cSJCBM9vM08tMt-xfKQCZFt5vExw/s1600/RaeLake49.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEGLJpb9b-9BO4xEba6RP65eKVFjr_RUcv9yuMDuwy-2wMGiIVUKDifoix9juK0xn1DP-4WzZjDxHqPJR0dKamEmTqjh2AfYdCf57WWJfg03smKl6cSJCBM9vM08tMt-xfKQCZFt5vExw/s1600/RaeLake49.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Somewhere out there our ride home awaits!</td></tr>
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<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4EF9Big4NP-PP_X4m90BOm4ivO4mJNrcqNf7xZ7BOcWM4u0i1xyj1SSVtZS0j0__6WI_oXunFb5BSgABFhoVxJkoBrvp0dK281gKMZAc7mvKhFYbOPf13WeBBT_i89luFQtochg4-Ljs/s1600/RaeLake48.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4EF9Big4NP-PP_X4m90BOm4ivO4mJNrcqNf7xZ7BOcWM4u0i1xyj1SSVtZS0j0__6WI_oXunFb5BSgABFhoVxJkoBrvp0dK281gKMZAc7mvKhFYbOPf13WeBBT_i89luFQtochg4-Ljs/s1600/RaeLake48.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a>Then we start to see the first of the several small bridges we will be crossing. Most of them atop dry creek beds. But from previous weekend trips in this area, the sign of the bridges means we're getting close to our final destination. We crossed the last wooden bridge that gets us across Bubbs Creek.<br />
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From here there's but one more bridge to cross, a steel bridge named Bailey Bridge, then we're back at the trail that we took on our first day of this trip. And back to the sandy part of the trail.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX5bDZYEleV2GQVATgRO2NI09ISN2z8CoxO7Fvx00xjDXrJPZcS9r2ILDlThl5WQcyMDH04hePaJykgBOQtoNOz6cAT5L6J0OXTBOfd4clj-uIXRv7MxHGaOOsDg7auK27ICrXQb7tKPQ/s1600/RaeLake50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX5bDZYEleV2GQVATgRO2NI09ISN2z8CoxO7Fvx00xjDXrJPZcS9r2ILDlThl5WQcyMDH04hePaJykgBOQtoNOz6cAT5L6J0OXTBOfd4clj-uIXRv7MxHGaOOsDg7auK27ICrXQb7tKPQ/s1600/RaeLake50.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bailey Bridge.</td></tr>
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Hiking on sand with feet constantly sinking, and under the heat of the midday sun is not easy! Especially when your mind knows the end is near and a good shower, hot meal and a bed that night awaits.</div>
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We made back to the trail head and bee lined to the closest shower facilities, on Cedar Grove.<br />
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Oshiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14465513929689702140noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441758913129244733.post-42463591630322944182014-09-15T14:48:00.000-07:002014-09-15T15:05:54.545-07:00Rae Lakes Loop Part 4: Rae Lakes, Glen Pass to Charlotte Creek<h3>
Rae Lakes, Glen Pass to Charlotte Creek: 13.5 miles - 1,434 feet elevation gain/ 4,718 feet elevation loss</h3>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Up and over! Best to leave early and avoid the scorching sun<br />
climbing up to Glen Pass at 11,978 feet.</td></tr>
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Hopping back on the trail from our camp site, the trail circles around the middle lake and eventually comes up to the Rae Lake crossing, where the upper lake feeds the middle. I've heard on other, previously wet seasons, that this can be a hard crossing to navigate. The logs serving as a bridge to cross were open for us to use on both our separate trips.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Upper Rae Lake in the morning sun.</td></tr>
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Just beyond the water crossing is the trail junction to Sixty Lakes Basin. Might try to camp out there on my next visit! Solitude seekers would have better luck spending the night here, as what we've been recommended by several hikers on separate occasions and trips.<br />
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It's not long after, the trail begins to ascend. The grueling 2.5 mile climb up to the pass starts. Every clamber up was either a beautiful lush green trail or a beautiful view of the lake we left.<br />
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Then we started leaving the greenery and entered the steep rocky terrain. It's a slow and steep climb. Climbing up on mostly exposed switchbacks with rocks obscuring where the next switchback is located. Occasional dots of other hikers above help see where we were headed.<br />
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Usually around early to mid July, even though it is well in the summer months already, the pass may still be covered with snow. But on the 1st week of July in 2012, the whole trail was clear. Small patches of snow can still be found around, but none to be too concerned about. Might be significantly different if the winter that passed had been a big snow season.<br />
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Views of Rae Lakes slowly become smaller and smaller, making it a bit incredible to believe we were just there a few hours ago. It was starting to feel far and away. But to our amusement, were replaced by finding other alpine lakes along the trail produced by earlier snow melts. Their colors remind me of blue crystal jewels!<br />
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Slowly but surely (more like processional pace for me!), we got to the top of the pass. The view is spectacular. That 360 degree view? Yeah, got it! A 180 degree view of where we came from and a 180 degree view of where we were headed for the rest of the day. It seemed so surreal. Stopped for a few photos and considered a long meal break, but it seems most folks coming from both directions have the same idea, so it became just a short snack break. It got crowded pretty quick. It is, after all, a spectacular view to take a good long break.. as long as storm clouds don't start up!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Atop Glen Pass!</td></tr>
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We flew on our downhill getting off the pass. Enjoying our speedy momentum, the exact opposite of what we were doing not too long ago, sluggish and slow. We passed a few more unnamed alpine lakes with beautiful blue hues and colorful little "gardens".<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Start seeing Charlotte Lake.</td></tr>
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It was an almost never ending switchback before the steep downhill climb lets up a bit to a more gradual one. We would start to see Charlotte Lake in the distance below us. A beautiful blue lake surrounded by lots of trees and if we'd look carefully, we could see the Charlotte Lake ranger station below, somewhere between us and the lake.<br />
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Charlotte Lake is an optional spot to camp for a night. It is only a marked 0.7 miles veer off the Rae Lakes Loops route and offers a bear/food locker and a ranger station.<br />
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After 7 miles and 3,000 feet later from where we started is Vidette Meadow. We found a bear/ food locker here but beware of getting mauled by mosquitoes in case of planning to camp here. We merely stopped mid-afternoon for a quick map check and we got pounced on!<br />
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A couple of miles along is Junction Meadow, where it is marked by a sign indicating a.. wait for it.. trail junction! How fitting the name was, hahaha. There is a trail that veers off from here to East Lake and Reflection Lake, some 3 and 5 miles, respectively.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Passing through beautiful Junction Meadow.</td></tr>
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Some 13 miles later, arriving at Charlotte Creek in time to set-up camp and have an early dinner. Like most spots we camped in, there is one bear/ food locker here to share. And the closest water source is Bubbs creek, towards braving the forest of ferns close to camp, that are swarming with mosquitoes or back on the trail passing the camp site, is Charlotte creek that cuts across the trail.<br />
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Similar to Paradise Valley, this "opposite side" of the loop is also known for a very active bear area. We caught a glimpse of one in the late afternoon, back up on the trail, strolling.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tried to capture at least the butt-end of a cinnamon colored bear.</td></tr>
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Oshiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14465513929689702140noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441758913129244733.post-13190422454696948242014-09-08T13:10:00.000-07:002014-09-08T13:10:33.632-07:00Rae Lakes Loop Part 3: Woods Creek Crossing to Rae Lake<h3>
<span style="text-align: right;">Woods Creek Crossing to Rae Lake: 8 miles - 2,096 feet elevation gain</span></h3>
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<span style="text-align: right;">This is, and I think will always be, my favorite part of this route. If I enjoyed the first 2 parts of our hikes on this loop, this part I was in awe. </span><br />
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<span style="text-align: right;">After hiking up a bit, we entered a very dense forest of ferns. The colors were beautiful, colorful wild flowers were in bloom highlighted by the lush greens from the ferns. It was lively and alive! And so were the mosquitoes, hungry and newly hatched, I'd suspect!</span><br />
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<span style="text-align: right;">On one season, we had to quickly whip out our head nets to protect our faces from all the mutant looking mosquitoes that just swarmed around us. We only had a short period of time to admire all the greens and colorful flowers sans head nets. On another season, we just ran through this portion, waving our hands in front of our faces like lunatics. No photos for that one, thank goodness!</span><br />
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<span style="text-align: right;">About a mile in our hike for the day, the trail started to climb up on some switch backs before eventually getting to a quick short climb down to a wooden platform leading into a lush green meadow. Watch out for more mosquitoes!</span><br />
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<span style="text-align: right;">Further along and climbing up from the meadow we passed through, there's a good spot to take a quick meal break, on the left side of the trail. A huge flat topped rock provides an expansive view of the gorgeous valley we climbed out of.</span></div>
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It was difficult to tear away from sitting and enjoying the scenery before us but more beautiful things await us for the day. And not too long after leaving that little break spot, we reached the 10,000 foot elevation mark reminding us of the fire restriction at this elevation in Kings Canyon National Park. And then, i<span style="text-align: right;">t was just a tad bit of a climb before we can get to our first lake of the trip!</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: right;">At 10,300 feet elevation, by the (not maintained trail) Baxter Pass trail junction, Dollar Lake came into view. The flat terrain by this side of lake is closed for camping and have signs from the park service that they are restoring vegetation in that area.</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: right;">The trail continues and skirts around the lake, opening up to a picturesque open space of lush greenery with a creek meandering through it. Eventually crossing the creek that feeds the Dollar lake, Arrowhead Lake comes into view. There is a bear/food locker by Arrowhead Lake but vigilance may be needed if staying. Keep an eye out for those fluffy, adorable marmots as they abound this area.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY6_NvAvhaNmSiRa6lPE93w1y_uEr4F2U0WcsbrcmZPMhb-Bs1blOEtokbG8phCbcgATsWd_q68KidxFLNPrWrZmXZYHuKb8nullQqNxIHvFMZL1XWtQcK3DC54D-nJ-_DdwAmh-8NO8A/s1600/RaeLake27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY6_NvAvhaNmSiRa6lPE93w1y_uEr4F2U0WcsbrcmZPMhb-Bs1blOEtokbG8phCbcgATsWd_q68KidxFLNPrWrZmXZYHuKb8nullQqNxIHvFMZL1XWtQcK3DC54D-nJ-_DdwAmh-8NO8A/s1600/RaeLake27.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: right;">It is a gradual climb beyond Arrowhead Lake, then Lower Rae Lake will eventually come into view. It's a lake galore kind of day! Spaces to camp can be found, along with a bear/food locker. Though, it is a bit exposed along the trail but guaranteed will not be as crowded as at Middle Rae Lake.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lower Rae Lake camp site with bear/food locker</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful Rae Lake from along the trail.</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: right;">The back country</span><span style="text-align: right;"> ranger station can be found on a spur trail up to the left side, a little ways pass Lower Rae. We popped in to say hi and was only able to catch the ranger once. But the cabin itself is worth a visit! It's an adorable tiny house, fit to be occupied by the ranger throughout the hiking season. I wouldn't mind living there in solitary.. ever!</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: right;">Pass the ranger station, a sign pointing to where the food locker is located will come up to the left and then it's a walk down where the camp sites and a couple of bear/food lockers can be found, closer to Rae Lake.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9NVoleillUZxjsUNxeq6D-iITUfK3btumdn6FVdfjtYhJtZZPZO99IU_FEtLKEg9W1dit02bfTgnOCVI_eHN32qG2u8MX5tM0oSbVjzFQclv3qg5AV_UlIe_DfOJ1tJE6Qkmu00UP4oU/s1600/RaeLake32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9NVoleillUZxjsUNxeq6D-iITUfK3btumdn6FVdfjtYhJtZZPZO99IU_FEtLKEg9W1dit02bfTgnOCVI_eHN32qG2u8MX5tM0oSbVjzFQclv3qg5AV_UlIe_DfOJ1tJE6Qkmu00UP4oU/s1600/RaeLake32.jpg" height="478" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rae Lake with the Painted Lady in the back drop.</td></tr>
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Oshiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14465513929689702140noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441758913129244733.post-8148882836808738022014-09-02T16:29:00.004-07:002014-09-04T12:55:26.126-07:00Rae Lakes Loop Part 2: Middle Paradise Valley to Woods Creek Crossing<h3 style="clear: both;">
Middle Paradise Valley to Woods Creek Crossing: 9 miles - 1,584 feet elevation gain</h3>
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Passing through Upper Paradise Valley, you'll come upon a bridge. If you're with someone, let them go ahead and take a picture of you on the bridge below the steps. It's an awesome photo op with spires of granite as your backdrop! After coming down from the bridge, the trail will continue on your right. If you didn't fill up with water before leaving camp, best to fill up now, it'll be a while before the next water source.</div>
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The trail continues on through and we enter again into the thicket of trees. As the trees started to get sparse, a series of switchback came into our view.</div>
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We came across a fence made of wire and wood while climbing up a switch back and questioned if we were trespassing on something, but there was no gate, just an open part of the fence for us to go through. Guessing, it was to mark park boundaries. Maybe. Since we came across another of the same fence not too long after. I felt we entered and exited someone's property. And if it was, what an awesome place to live! I imagined. The valley before us now came into view and camp should just be past the meadow. But the trail seem to go on forever.</div>
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Castle Dome Meadow was pretty. If only there was enough shade to rest under in! On our 2013 trip, most of the trees and brushes around were singed. Remnants of a previous fire, maybe or lightning strikes. The Castle Domes stand as granite walls to our left as we trudge along the trail to Woods Creek Crossing.</div>
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One of the best thing I loved about this hike was its abundance of bridges! Small, big and ones you can't stop marveling at. And by far, my favorite of all wilderness bridges was this hanging bridge at Woods Creek crossing. Turning right at junction to head south, where Woods Creek Trail meets with the JMT/PCT, we were to cross the hanging bridge to our camp site. The bridge was a bit trippy and hella fun to walk on, especially during our first time!</div>
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After crossing the bridge, camp sites abound and bear lockers. One bear locker can easily be found just on the left side of the trail and one or two more can be found off the trail to the right. Though one of those two stank of horse manure and I've come across a horse post not too far from it.</div>
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This is where we started meeting several thru-hikers since our route now has met up with the John Muir and Pacific Crest Trails, so there is a lot of access to this area coming from the west and the east side of the sierra. The area gets pretty busy. Folks hiking through, some setting up camps, others taking their breaks waiting for hiking friends and hikers helping hikers take their photos with the beautiful bridge.</div>
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<br />Oshiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14465513929689702140noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441758913129244733.post-50915755186591129202014-09-02T16:00:00.001-07:002014-09-03T14:46:15.394-07:00Rae Lakes Loop Part 1: Road's End to Middle Paradise Valley<h3>
Road's End to Middle Paradise Valley: 8 miles - 1,596 feet of elevation gain</h3>
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The trail starts with a very sandy stretch of a trail. Too excited of what lay ahead of us to be aware of how annoying it was, as it keeps sucking down every step we'd make. We would, however, notice it on our way out though!<br />
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It is about 2 miles until we hit the "Y" section (the end of the "stick" part of the lollipop, per se) , taking the left fork to Woods Creek Trail and leaving the left fork leading to a metal bridge towards Bubbs Creek Trail, for us to come back to. And from here it's a 2 mile climb up for our first real break at Mist Falls, where we'll also loose most of the hiking crowd doing their day hike to the waterfalls.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Mist Falls wasn't very "misty" July of 2012</td></tr>
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More climbing had to be done before getting to our first camp site of the week, at Middle Paradise Valley. Past Mist Falls, the trail continues to climb up for about 1.5 miles before it evens out, giving a brief moment of respite before continuing on climbing up again.<br />
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Lower Paradise Valley, 2 miles from Mist Falls, is also an option to camp with a few sites and a bear box, but after arriving there in the afternoon without any sun shining through and it's thick with trees (and mosquitoes!), the place looks forlorn. A push for a couple of miles more along a flat terrain, the Middle Paradise was a better choice.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrdR6N_WT6fONKpbTtrT8EPIlMN2gWfnl29ny48ZIRH_DgaY7QMutnMlQYMR6eILnU6mQZiWwHfoEkNS0_4KAAq7nzVMVGNC1luwFtRKv1vS75IthquV5R7OUVt5CZBjQDW8vXDIWsaT0/s1600/Day1Paradise.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrdR6N_WT6fONKpbTtrT8EPIlMN2gWfnl29ny48ZIRH_DgaY7QMutnMlQYMR6eILnU6mQZiWwHfoEkNS0_4KAAq7nzVMVGNC1luwFtRKv1vS75IthquV5R7OUVt5CZBjQDW8vXDIWsaT0/s1600/Day1Paradise.jpg" height="200" width="111" /></a>Ultimately though, Upper Paradise Valley was more ideal. It's a bit more open, has more than one bear box and 2 more miles closer to the next destination!<br />
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But we didn't want to shock our bodies for our first day and settled for midway through the valley. The camp site has one food lockers for everyone to use. A pit toilet is also tucked away somewhere to the west of the trail (north side). There was a sign pointing to its direction by the first camp site but we never got to check it out. And I didn't find (nor did I look for it) on our second trip.</div>
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Bears are also very active in this area. Bear proof your camp site and you should be fine! We got a visit from one who was much too busy rummaging the logs in quest for food, to give us much more than a glance. Probably helped that we were making too much noise and he deemed us more of an ear ache than food bringers. But in the midst of all the noise making we did, lots of photo-taking had to happen, of course!</div>
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Oshiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14465513929689702140noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441758913129244733.post-39922583376635513712014-08-28T15:00:00.002-07:002014-08-28T16:37:05.535-07:00Pat's Backcountry BeverageJust finished setting up camp after an exhilarating hike under a gorgeous blue sky weather and a beautiful lake in plain view. Sprawled out by our camp and enjoying the fruits of our day's labor. Now if only my left hand (or right) is raising a nice bubbling beer to my tired-of-drinking-just-plain-water mouth. Life at the moment would be perfect.<br />
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But the beer had to be left behind. A weight sacrifice that had to be made in exchange for a tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, stove, food, blah, blah, blah and blah.<br />
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I first stumbled on Pat's Backcountry Beverage researching for ways to carry beer in my backpack. Cause I'll be honest, much as I love enjoying a good Pinot in the wilderness carried by my trusty Platypus or good ol' whiskey, rum or what-not liquor repackaged into a lighter flask, a good tasting beer is my comfort food in liquid form.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My failed tries of searching for<br />
"pack-able" sodas</td></tr>
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Carrying bottles was not an option. Even the thought of carrying the weight of those bottles after I have enjoyed their contents did not give reassuring joy. Plus the fact that they'd occupy so much space in a bear canister! I've considered cans, thrash-wise they were a better option. But with weight still in the factor, I'm only willing to carry 1 or 2 and they'd still take up too much in the canister! Plus, one would have to share that precious can with other beer-less hiking buds who'd be eyeing you vehemently lest you'd share a few sips of that brown ale you're enjoying. It is a long way down that cliff and then there's that deep, deep lake in front of you...<br />
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All my researching, I finally landed on Pat's Backcountry Beverage website (it looked different than how it beautifully looks now). And enjoyed much of their back story of how they ended up with their current product. It pretty much echoed all of my beer sentiments in backpacking. But on their story, they ended hiking back and heeding the call of the after-hike beers stored in their car!<br />
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After much deliberation, I took the plunge and purchased the carbonator kit from Amazon. The kit included the 1 Carbonator Bottle, 5 Activator packets and 1 foil packet of each flavor to make your own soda. They were still in the middle of getting their liquor license approved at that time, so beer sale was still on hold. That didn't deter me. I figured I'd have this carbonating thing cinched down by the time beer sales get approved.<br />
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Out of all the soda flavors included in the kit, Terra Cola, Ginger Trail, Rootbeer, Lemon Clime and PomaGranite, the Lemon Clime was an instant favorite.<br />
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It took a few tries and watching Pat's (original) video on how to use it and took it for a spin on a quick backpacking trip with the soda flavors, before I got it down and I was ready for some beer! It was a bit of a wait that time, but made it in time for me to purchase a few for our High Sierra Trail trip.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4kFD5Grhj4OJzH-Al4qKpSL9imUFHAQuRHZ8hilDKxYHuQ-dMYOytX2pdjb3vwbb19n7S-pnPmubJk-EjCe0lQmatvAFQ5jxr0ioW0bg0WEsMK4l5eWt9ViiPbFTLJ3cFbM0QUUlWDk0/s1600/PBCBpalerail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4kFD5Grhj4OJzH-Al4qKpSL9imUFHAQuRHZ8hilDKxYHuQ-dMYOytX2pdjb3vwbb19n7S-pnPmubJk-EjCe0lQmatvAFQ5jxr0ioW0bg0WEsMK4l5eWt9ViiPbFTLJ3cFbM0QUUlWDk0/s1600/PBCBpalerail.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a>They've got 2 different brews, the Pail Rail (a pale ale) and Black Hops (an IPA). Haven't got a chance to try the Black Hops, but the Pail Rail gets a thumbs up. After a few days and slogging in a few miles, a cold beer in the middle of the woods was nice to have.<br />
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Unlike the soda flavors, the beer concentrates are not available to purchase on their website nor at your local REI store. You'd be redirected to liquor stores in your area that carry them and can sell them retail directly to you, customers. Stopped on our way home from a camping trip in San Jacinto State Park at a Liquorama store in Upland, CA (the closest in my L.A. radius!). I had to ask for them though, since they don't put it out on the shelves. The guy who helped me out mentioned it was rare or I may be the first to ask for it, as they mostly fill up online orders of it.<br />
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I love how the sodas and beer concentrates come in little foil packets shaped like a bottle. They can perfectly fit to squish into available spaces inside the bear canister. Big plus! They're also small enough to secretly stash in you buddy's backpack and have it completely undetected! Another plus to be able to bring more!<br />
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Pat's Backcountry Beverage definitely earned its weight and space in my backpack!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Note: Please don't get into a drunken stupor in the back country. Dehydration is your big enemy!</span>Oshiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14465513929689702140noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441758913129244733.post-35010017764594569302014-08-21T13:00:00.000-07:002014-08-21T16:10:43.178-07:00Taking care of swollen feet.So there was this epic hike. Miles and miles were covered. Walked endlessly for days and days. Everyday. <i>All. Day. Long</i>.<br />
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And now I'm in the comfort of my home, engorged with food, bathed & just want to savor the comfort of a ready to sit/lie on cushion (no more blowing of an air mattress before I can sink in it!). And then I look down.. Gah! My legs remind me of Lilo and her sister Nani.. or maybe Stitch? It wasn't in any pain nor did I have trouble walking. They were just.. swollen.<br />
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Swollen feet and legs after a long hike was a first for me! But then so was walking everyday, all day for 8 days straight and never had a zero day incurred. So what do I do?! I need to fit in the shoes I'll be wearing the following day I get back to work!<br />
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Hello, Epsom Salt, soother of every muscle and pill-popping-less pain reliever!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Feet soak wilderness style in Kern Hot Springs.</td></tr>
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Before flicking the TV and catch up on the next season of The Killing, that Kari has been dying to start but can't, since I was in the wilderness for a little more than a week, she grabbed a basin full of warm water and dissolved a cup full of Epsom Salt to soak both my feet in. Though she said it was warm water, I say it was hot! But I gritted my teeth and plunged to soak my feet - will not argue with anyone holding a basin full of hot water. LOL. After a few tentative dip of my toes, my feet eventually got submerged in the basin and after a couple of minutes, cheerful little feet were adjusted to the temperature and soaking comfortably for one full episode of the series.<br />
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After drying them completely, both of my feet almost never felt floor, they've been propped up and elevated to be higher than my heart, all night even when we went to sleep, it was propped up. By morning, there was not a trace of any swollen legs nor feet! They had gone back to their usual weird looking selves.<br />
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It was a good thing, as I was not ready to go for another endless walking around, this time in a shoe store and purchase a few larger sized pairs of shoes!<br />
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Ingredients to take take care of swollen feet after a long hike:</h3>
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<li>A basin full of warm water (not lukewarm, but not boiling hot either!)</li>
<li>a cup of Epsom Salt</li>
<li>Towel to dry your feet</li>
<li>Pillows - in every size, so you can stack 'em up!</li>
<li>A cold beer (optional) - to imbibe as you wait for your feet to soak.. or a fave book.. or watch TV. Anything to keep you from staring blankly at your submerged feet.</li>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Note: I am no doctor. Just sharing experience! Please consult your doctor if you suspect more than just tired feet with your swelling.</span></i></div>
Oshiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14465513929689702140noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441758913129244733.post-36570782982845513122014-08-21T11:35:00.001-07:002014-08-21T11:35:20.327-07:00A Weekend with Moms in Montecito Lodge, Sequoia National ForestWe couldn't wait for Mother's Day to appease our desire to whisk away our mothers and spend a weekend with them. So a quick check on our budgets and a few clicks here and there we were booked and headed out to Sequoia National Park for a weekend in the mountains and a night in Montecito Lodge.<br />
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The Montecito Lodge is an all inclusive, open all year round resort. We loved the idea that we need not have to worry about anything else once we've checked in, except to look for stuff to do. The meals are included in our stay. Since we only stayed for a night, it included our dinner and breakfast, but lunch is available for those staying longer and I believe they can even pack a lunch for you if given a heads up, if you're going out for a hike. Lodging and worry-free meals for 4 adults for a weekend in the mountains for $200 including tax? Why not! They even have wi-fi, too! Which I felt weird using. Not used to being connected while I'm in park!<br />
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It's the almost the end of February, in which normally most of the mountains in California would still be blanketed with snow. It is expected to be completely snow country in January till early March, unless it's an epic snow season, then of course it extends. But this season, it was not. It's not even a normal winter in California standards. We drove up to the Big Stump entrance after gloriously missing the turn off to 180E from 99N freeway. Kari got mesmerized driving and me, sightseeing to nothingness on the 99. We toyed with the idea to change plans to Yosemite instead since we were getting close to its exit! It got quickly brushed off with the closest exit and turned on the opposite freeway to get back on track.<br />
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It was a slow day at the entrance when we arrived. My mom excitedly fished out her Senior Annual Pass, a lifetime pass for senior citizens all for $10. She's been eager to use it again since she got it on our last visit to Yosemite years ago. I just tucked away our own annual pass, hers supersedes it anyways! It was nice to see her face get excited, even giving the ranger her ID without being asked 'cause the instructions said so, she said. Made me smile.<br />
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(** For more information on the America The Beautiful Inter Agency Annual Pass click <a href="http://www.nps.gov/findapark/passes.htm" target="_blank">here</a> to get redirected to the National Park Service - <i>Support the parks!</i>)</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1XkT8RZnMi2OnvaNerdP_Xm0bkPTVfZZJ4AW3XzEL_9VThfs8TAu8RVGRQDlGgCG9-SMpSjE77FvlYu97SmQKYezyYdL-lTXm735knfgYVayMEbsexvnmzRn98-73lYfrsSrV7iNCiEI/s1600/DSC_0284.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1XkT8RZnMi2OnvaNerdP_Xm0bkPTVfZZJ4AW3XzEL_9VThfs8TAu8RVGRQDlGgCG9-SMpSjE77FvlYu97SmQKYezyYdL-lTXm735knfgYVayMEbsexvnmzRn98-73lYfrsSrV7iNCiEI/s1600/DSC_0284.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the "Y" from the Big Stump Entrance in SEKI via 180</td></tr>
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Driving into the park, we already weren't expecting much snow. But we were taken aback at the complete absence of it around us.. in <i>February</i>. At this point, I was already not regretting leaving the snowshoes behind.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqvqPTAUBSFQXlpDyQp4fvcJ7JyT3Kl3HnOnXfrl-Bo9CBB7Ng0Nuu-nrOZeySfdF-mAIK5-KAIUjHBDnoyfkLcjUzTfqwQOMWaP_EEeLBPXrD5hztPF7xsJI5Qq6e2i8d9R8X0Ekh7Sg/s1600/DSC_0428.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqvqPTAUBSFQXlpDyQp4fvcJ7JyT3Kl3HnOnXfrl-Bo9CBB7Ng0Nuu-nrOZeySfdF-mAIK5-KAIUjHBDnoyfkLcjUzTfqwQOMWaP_EEeLBPXrD5hztPF7xsJI5Qq6e2i8d9R8X0Ekh7Sg/s1600/DSC_0428.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a>Making a right turn at the "Y", we found the Montecito Lodge sign on our right, with three carved wooden bears (I think it was missing Goldilocks!), not long after and made for the turn off. We were now leaving the park boundaries and entering the National Forest area where the resort is located. The sight of the lake welcomed us as we drove up to the lodge to check in. I can see the lake to be abuzz with guests swimming, paddling and all during the summer. Kari and her mom have been her during that season when they picked me up from a backpacking trip before and they both said it had been a busy lake and it was all they could do to just lounge by the beach and watch kids and families have some water fun.<br />
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Check in was quick and easy. The check-in desk can be found right by the lodge's main entrance as you enter it, and opens up to large space of long wooden tables, that was to become the mess hall during meals, and the space extends further more to a sitting area filled with several couches by a big fireplace.<br />
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We decided to locate our rooms and dump our belongings first then explore the grounds before dinner. Finding the right staircase closest to our room was a bit tricky for me, there were several small staircases leading off of the main hall that leads upstairs to the rooms. But Kari quickly figured it out.<br />
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Our room was not very big but adequate enough to accommodate sleeping 4 ladies. We won't be staying cooped up in there anyways! It had a queen bed in the middle of the room and a bunk bed by the door. The bathroom looks recently redone, small but clean. And it has an ample closet space. Though I don't know how it would fare for a week-long stay for a family in winter, outerwear and all.<br />
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Exploring the grounds, the swimming pool, slightly off of the lodge's entrance, was closed for the season. However the hot tub next to it was bubbling and steaming with a few folks enjoying it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgxndxld89RpBm64B-V3mnQiCU10-lWgTiUQmPpZkBeYN9-kczwo_Ys8PoNREa8vjOA-rHYpOdlptXG2lCZzaCmDbi0P0THbg6HOzc9qAOFkHOvoVblBfaut1c7q7bj70EkOn6i-jZ9GE/s1600/DSC_0303.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgxndxld89RpBm64B-V3mnQiCU10-lWgTiUQmPpZkBeYN9-kczwo_Ys8PoNREa8vjOA-rHYpOdlptXG2lCZzaCmDbi0P0THbg6HOzc9qAOFkHOvoVblBfaut1c7q7bj70EkOn6i-jZ9GE/s1600/DSC_0303.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2UPCirmjkJhO3eWph52s86QXrOZZC9UoQA5eZSJVxYCWCBx6u6dxcKZBP7gqo7NeEow9G1UumFLJBRVSHg_84oC-E4Op-aIjMYDUs9sJ10i7BC5jEabm-5ypJ8dRO0yIhZmwho9SFjKw/s1600/DSC_0308.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2UPCirmjkJhO3eWph52s86QXrOZZC9UoQA5eZSJVxYCWCBx6u6dxcKZBP7gqo7NeEow9G1UumFLJBRVSHg_84oC-E4Op-aIjMYDUs9sJ10i7BC5jEabm-5ypJ8dRO0yIhZmwho9SFjKw/s1600/DSC_0308.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a>We walked in the direction passing the pool and found a small climbing wall behind the lodge and beneath the outdoor deck. It was empty and appearing to be only offered during their summer season for the kids. After all, winter season is for snowshoeing, cross country skiing and they even have down-hill skiing and snowboarding! Found a non-functioning lift on the opposite side of the lodge. But due to lack of snow for the season, these were not being offered that time. Too bad, would have been nice for a ski-in/out shindig with half the price on big winter resorts!<br />
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After walking around the grounds and goofing off for photos on the outdoor deck, it got too chilly already and we all decided to check out the indoor amenities.<br />
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From the outdoor deck, doors lead inside to a recreational room with a couple of ping pong tables, couches by a fireplace, table and benches for endless board and card games and a bar! With a decent selection of beers and wine.. score! Beer on hand, challenged Kari to a game of ping pong while the mothers got comfy by the fireplace with their respective books on hand. Then dinner was served.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3IKggIO2vh0_dBlLqShzHZhcCXUeJeGQ8T6rZC8z54rX9E0vQiZBdZhnhemuPuhyphenhyphen-rLYuldv2i_GksY5NYM4xYw0aSoe5ImV-Y_SfbXXBI189cJc67D_t1ev4UHfXo3_6-Vy49mJiC78/s1600/DSC_0386.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3IKggIO2vh0_dBlLqShzHZhcCXUeJeGQ8T6rZC8z54rX9E0vQiZBdZhnhemuPuhyphenhyphen-rLYuldv2i_GksY5NYM4xYw0aSoe5ImV-Y_SfbXXBI189cJc67D_t1ev4UHfXo3_6-Vy49mJiC78/s1600/DSC_0386.JPG" height="213" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a>Meal is served buffet style and have options for every picky eater. We picked a table next to a big family who were all there celebrating their "Abuela's" birthday. They even brought their own cake for the occasion! Their joyous celebration was contagious, couldn't help smiling at them!<br />
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After dinner, kids and wanna-be kids were gathered around the fireplace and a resort employee facilitated some marshmallow roasting for some S-mores to end the night. We stayed longer on the lounge area, reading and talking before we all retreated for the night and get ourselves ready for a day of exploring the park.<br />
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The following morning, after a yum buffet of breakfast (my favorite way of having breakfast.. ever!), we cheked out, perused the small gift shop across the check-in desk and a routine my sister & I do when we travel, mailed out a postcard to her. The car loaded up, we were ready to explore Sequoia National Park!<br />
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Some tree hugging commenced. Some awestruck moment staring at fallen giant Sequoia trees. And since it was not the peak season of summer, the road looping around to get to Moro Rock, Auto Log and Tunnel Log by the Giant Forest Museum was open for private vehicles. We drove and stopped at each landmark and even went to climb the 400 steps up to the top of Moro Rock. My mom, who is not a 'hiking gal' per se, but grew up playing outside when she was young, was happily climbing those steps and really determined to finish it. Slowly but surely she made it!<br />
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Some more pictures below!<br />
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Oshiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14465513929689702140noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441758913129244733.post-49443449595479279512014-07-14T16:42:00.000-07:002014-08-28T16:40:21.382-07:00Suffer now than regret later - the task of packing your meal.I was tossed a topic to talk about and the subject was FOOD. I jumped at it, after all I love to eat, wilderness or not wilderness.<br />
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It falls at such a perfect timing that I am in my last three week window of planning for an upcoming backpacking trip. I'll be heading out with some of my usual hiking suspects to traverse the sierra nevada from the West to the East via the High Sierra Trail route and we've allowed ourselves 7 days to finish it, so that would mean about 21 meals plus extras. Yes, extra! My family has successfully instilled in us, growing up, what I like to call, The Hunger Fear.<br />
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Eating is a family tradition. Family get together always involve food, from the joyous birth of a new member of the family to the celebration of life of someone who has passed, my family will have a table spread out with all kinds of food - not just snacks, but actual meals!</div>
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To avoid that "Hunger Fear", my family has always been known to pack, cook, prepare extra amounts of food for any occasion, whatsoever. <i>"At the end of the day, it is better to have left overs than get short of anything."</i>, were my Nanay's (our grandma) words she has passed on to us.<br />
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But this is backpacking, extra weight is deemed like a sacrilege in the backpacking community. One will get stoned to virtual death in any public intarweb forum. Religious ultralight practioners will throw themselves into the fire before they'd even consider packing in any extra weight. So, how do I go about packing enough meals for a trip without abandoning my family's mantra.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiayB6on-z0JEft9W9Q5kbCTydel7dF9Etg0c8i4NNGvYnlJ1eL-RcBU44n4gZRqc5sxslX25tvaiOiou_i2RiS5eCL0jrtSjGMUnXeikUxuvRKb1PoUkjCckrZyyUu4tpXpN8fE20iWxI/s1600/photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiayB6on-z0JEft9W9Q5kbCTydel7dF9Etg0c8i4NNGvYnlJ1eL-RcBU44n4gZRqc5sxslX25tvaiOiou_i2RiS5eCL0jrtSjGMUnXeikUxuvRKb1PoUkjCckrZyyUu4tpXpN8fE20iWxI/s1600/photo.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a>Over the past few trips a few suffer-now-than-regret-later tasks to ensure a hunger-free trip have been developed and discovered.<br />
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Menu Planning </h3>
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As any "Suzy Homemaker" knows, just a week's worth of menu planning is tedious but a suffer-now-than-regret-later task. Having a meal planned for each day of your trip will make it easy to not over pack. And be able to gauge how much extra snacks and meals can you still bring.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4j04RHFkUrL-bp3EvmOilMFYuUXXhKcx4AcN0RK3UtTytgCnECElvP3sltjyh_vgXiFOXATWANkHT8dUy5zD9vBr05LNOGUQ-bEcOLEpfg9iK-HPQOqFgVD-e8Ginpy_VrKo7HmZnI4Y/s1600/557021_10151018548634890_274639212_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4j04RHFkUrL-bp3EvmOilMFYuUXXhKcx4AcN0RK3UtTytgCnECElvP3sltjyh_vgXiFOXATWANkHT8dUy5zD9vBr05LNOGUQ-bEcOLEpfg9iK-HPQOqFgVD-e8Ginpy_VrKo7HmZnI4Y/s1600/557021_10151018548634890_274639212_n.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a>And meal failures do occur even at the home front, but there will always be the "take out from down the street" to save us. However, in camping in a remote area, one does not have that fall back option. So every meal that is planned, should be tried and taste-tested before it can get the stamp of approval and earn a space in the bear canister.<br />
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Re-packaging</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1qh9CNXSC2R3yp7A-f7Vj-XQ3QY4vkTPw6z-2VJTHGBVj7ItD4AqnAuEKz54Wxd9W5WCZWceMybyVwAKg9RTclhcch7HYfjFFYbCa_4aedhjSsqN2uKCekj25wwGoIzDDruVYmaY3qqY/s1600/2014-06-28+13.10.00.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1qh9CNXSC2R3yp7A-f7Vj-XQ3QY4vkTPw6z-2VJTHGBVj7ItD4AqnAuEKz54Wxd9W5WCZWceMybyVwAKg9RTclhcch7HYfjFFYbCa_4aedhjSsqN2uKCekj25wwGoIzDDruVYmaY3qqY/s1600/2014-06-28+13.10.00.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a>You know those shelf stable GoPinic meals you can carry anywhere? Yeah, strip that box open, examine the contents. Those individually packaged nuts, cookies and such? Strip those too and shove them all in one snack size ziplock. That just saved precious space on a trash bag that will be packed out. When you're gone for days with no town access, trash space is precious, too. Examine carefully all of what will be packed and get rid of any unnecessary packaging. It'll also save precious weight.<br />
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Can't find a pro-pak version of your favorite freeze-dried meal? A day as close enough to the trip as possible, poke a needle through your free-dried meal packaging to let the air out and tape over the hole after. That should make it easier to shove inside the bear canister or bag.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTUw0GYHZWrqUJ3yBfn8zgPyHL8Y1smCZCDsZFsd2HURgrm_3gbH4Gtr_B6bN8VnNr4QFSIrwVcwqb7I2pz72-BbYId8p0kW9Efnv-LXYrtF5TVDyFIxijhsRuZjXujZYQStHd5yxAxvw/s1600/IMG_2650.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTUw0GYHZWrqUJ3yBfn8zgPyHL8Y1smCZCDsZFsd2HURgrm_3gbH4Gtr_B6bN8VnNr4QFSIrwVcwqb7I2pz72-BbYId8p0kW9Efnv-LXYrtF5TVDyFIxijhsRuZjXujZYQStHd5yxAxvw/s1600/IMG_2650.JPG" height="320" width="239" /></a>Foil pack versions.</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCdwXWYzbkZddDtaPw8wbDXBw_E1X894OHpYDbCRil6TRcnMGyrCGspikJjcgpYIzKlAm2-msDRzYTlFrvP3Osc6ofKcsJs98TzDS_PNSnwKHXA2GOSi_w5CyXnhL1c2kahrAzcl4iOZ0/s1600/309313_10151018549349890_1760073647_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCdwXWYzbkZddDtaPw8wbDXBw_E1X894OHpYDbCRil6TRcnMGyrCGspikJjcgpYIzKlAm2-msDRzYTlFrvP3Osc6ofKcsJs98TzDS_PNSnwKHXA2GOSi_w5CyXnhL1c2kahrAzcl4iOZ0/s1600/309313_10151018549349890_1760073647_n.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a>Got that Chicken Alfredo thoughts in your tummy? Found the powder to make the sauce, pasta can be packed.. but unrefrigerated chicken? The foil-packed chicken chunks would be the answer to this. Remember to test out your menu at home first! Packaged chicken may not be for everyone. Tuna and salmon can also be found in foil packs, not just cans. And Spam! This processed food is a guilty pleasure, especially for breakfast.. or also lunch.. maybe even dinner. Ha! Happiness was off the roof that day I found those Spam singles in foil packs.<br />
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Mini groceries.</h3>
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Find a local DYI gift basket store. They're the perfect spot to find mini/solo versions of a lot of things, from summer sausages, cheese, chocolate bars, cookies and even liquor and wine bottles. My local Cost Plus World Market is my gem for these things. Grateful that I will always have cheese stashed during multi-day trips and they'll last!<br />
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Want to read more about outdoors and food? Check out the Sierra Trading Post Social Hub: <a href="http://hub.sierratradingpost.com/trailtime-food/" target="_blank">Food for the Outdoors: #Trailtime Favorites</a> and see other posts on the much loved topic. Still can't get enough? Join some happy, food loving, outdoorsy chatty people on twitter on Thursday 7/17 at 3 p.m. PST by following the <a href="https://twitter.com/search?f=realtime&q=%23Trailtime&src=typd" target="_blank">#Trailtime</a> tag!</h4>
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Oshiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14465513929689702140noreply@blogger.com0