| |
|
| | |
|
| Backpack | 55.10 Miles |
9,942 AEG |
| | Backpack | 55.10 Miles | 5 Days | | |
| 9,942 ft AEG | | | | |
|
|
| |
| Partners |
|
[ show ]
| partners | | Started from Hetch Hetchy O’Shaughnessy Dam backpackers parking lot late morning after going through all the necessary permit requirements and safety speech. We crossed the dam first and took some pics but it was already warm on the day. The trail follows the lake for a bit before we reached the junction to head upward.
A series of switchbacks eventually got us up into the taller pines about 2000 feet and cooler temps as we made our way further into the backcountry. Reached our day 1 camp destination at Beehive Spring about 230. Setup camp and then went off on a day hike around nearby Laurel Lake about 4 miles total. After the day hike we settled into camp which was relatively relaxing other than the nagging mosquitos.
Day 2 started out with a modest climb up the Moraine Ridge which put us over 8000 feet for the first time. Great views on top of Vernon Lake and Yosemite high country beyond. Eventually we dropped down a bit to Jack Main Canyon and Falls Creek. Headed up stream several miles to our night 2 and 3 camp spot. Took some time to find a good spot one with hopefully less mosquitoes than the marshy areas. We did find a nice spot but really the mosquitoes were ever present so we just had to deal with it. There was nice pool close by that we took advantage of for a swim and amble shade to wait out the heat of the day.
Day 3 9L had put together an 11 mile loop day hike to explore deeper into the backcountry. Started up Falls Creek towards Wilma Lake and the PCT junction. Mosquitoes were super thick before reaching the granite. However, once in the granite they were definitely more manageable and just upstream of Wilma Lake we found a really cool section of waterfalls and cascades on Falls Creek. Took our time enjoying the section before linking up with the PCT for a few miles. As Chumley mentioned there were 20 or so thru hikers in the short section we transited.
Eventually we exited the PCT and hiked in solitude the rest of the way. We were treated to some really great views of the high country as we topped out on a granite overlook around 8500 before dropping back down to camp.
Back at camp we went for another afternoon swim to cool off before settling in for another night at the same camp spot.
Day 4 we packed up and started the day with 1000 foot climb out of Falls Creek and Jack Main Canyon. This part took us up to 8600 before eventually plunging 3000 feet down to the Tilltill Valley. Steep switchbacks and very warm on the way down with Tilltill being about 5600 feet.
Took quick break in the shade before the next big drop and switchbacks down to Rancheria Falls and camp area at 4500 feet. It was much hotter at Rancheria but on the plus side the aggressive mosquitoes were non existent and we could sit around camp without much trouble. Another nice relaxing night in camp in some tall Pondos and Redwoods for aesthetics.
Next morning, Day 5 we all got a relatively early start to avoid the heat on the final 7 miles out to the trailhead. Early start was also a bonus because had great morning light on the hike and views of the lake as it traverses the rocky ledges along the shore.
The last highlight along the trail out was Wampa Falls. Fortunately, we arrived before the day hikers could make it up from the dam so we had the whole scene to ourselves. Took all the pics and enjoyed the falls which was still in shade before hiking the last 3 miles out to the dam.
Made it to the vehicle by about 945am and beat most of the heat. Great trip and thanks to 9L for getting the permit and all the planning! |
| _____________________
| | |
|
|
|
|
|
| |
Route Editor
Route Scout
