I did this loop as described counter-clockwise. I think that is definitely the best way. I got to the TH early with only 10 cars in the Peralta parking lot. That's pretty good for a Saturday. Even when I got back it was only 1/3 full. Until I made it back to Fremont Saddle, I only saw three groups of hikers. The last hiker I saw was lost and looking for the trail. He was only about 15 feet off the very obvious Peralta trail about a mile from the Dutchman intersection. You know its bad when I have to help someone find the way!

All in all its a pretty great hike. There's a little cat-claw encroaching on the Terrapin but no big deal and the Peralta Trail is getting a little overgrown in the area it hits closest to Weavers Needle. I didn't mind because it was a pleasant surprise to hike through a canopy of foliage. I think I'll do this again in the spring when water is flowing. Its nice to start hiking the Supes again-- 12 miles and home by 3:00! Hiking again tomorrow in the Mazzies. Sometimes I don't mind so much when my girlfriend has to work all weekend-- please don't ever tell her I said that.