Snow Nymph's warmup backpack: Cottonwood Pass

“Mammoth Mountain closed last weekend, so three of us met at Horseshoe Meadows for our first backpack of the season. Two others went in the day before and would meet us at Chicken Spring Lake. The plan was to do Cirque Peak (12,900') on Sunday. Didn't make Cirque. Altitude got me so I wasn't feeling 100% and I tossed and turned all night (usually I get my best sleep in the Sierra). The other couple did Cirque Peak before meeting us, and the other couple were heading out (early work issues on Mon). Since it was offtrail, I didn't want to do it alone, plus I didn't want anyone to worry. Weather was great, bugs weren't too bad, and it was fun being with friends on the trail!

Photos: Cottonwood Pass Backpack ”

“Hey Snow Nymph - I just had a chance to catch up on all of your June trips

Lots of great pics !!”

“nice pictures and trip report Snow Nymph. It is good to see you out on the trails again. The cabin looks as if it has not changed at all. Even the items inside look like they are in the same place. Thank you for sharing your trip!”

“I loved the photos! Two summers some of us went on a Llamarama up to Chicken Springs Lake. It was fun to relive that trip through your pictures.”

“Wonderful pictures as always!

Last Memorial Day we went over Cottonwood Pass and out to Rocky Basin Lakes - it was really nice. It looks like the snow is melting fast in the southeast Sierra.

Next weekend we're doing White Mountain, so I'm sure I'll get a taste of that altitude.”

“You seemed to pay more attention to the trees in your photos this time. Hmm..wonder why that is. They're certainly something to look at. It's the texture and color of the bark. Plus, the wind stripped them bare.

Also loved that first valley shot. You're taking great photos with your digital camera. You must be happy with the change.”