Eastern Sierra Suggestions

“So as it turns out, I have up to ten days to spend in the Eastern Sierra and, of course, want a backpacking trip. I've done several trips in the area but am interested in suggestions of cool loop trails that take anywhere from 4-8 days. Longer is preferable.

It needs to be dog friendly; I'm limited to the wilderness areas and not allowed in the National Parks for backpacking.

Thanks knowledgable folks of TT!

SJN”

“I'm just not sure about the dog situation, but I think South Lake to North Lake (55 awesome miles) would fit the other requirements. The trailheads are only about 20-30 minutes apart so setting up a shuttle or thumbing a ride is not that difficult.

Did you post on http://www.highsierratopix.com?”

“The dog thing threw me - although you might try Hoover Wilderness over by Bridgeport. It backs up against Yosemite but you could probably spend some time in that area visiting Peeler, Barney, Crown and Snow Lakes all outside the NPS. Is that Eastern...don't know except I kinda travel eastward to get there.”

“Cottonwood Lakes, over New Army Pass, to the back side of Mt. Whitney.”

“I don't know about dogs either, but the Hoover Wilderness is beautiful.”

“Great suggestions, all!

Idaho, is that a loop or a one way? I don't ahve a problem setting up a shuttle but it would be easier not to.

I can take a dog in any wilderness but I just have to avoid Kings Canyon and Yosemite.

Thanks!”

“If you have to avoid Sequoia National Park, then the backside of Whitney is out.”

“Thanks for the link Phil and the info.

I will hit the site.

SJN”

“Well, thanks for the input, everyone. I have my trip planned and we're heading out on Sat for 8 glorious days on the trail. Check it!

Going in at Courtright Reservoir in the NW corner of John Muir Wilderness, up to Post Coral Meadows, up Flemming Mtn to Mosquito Pass to explore, crossing east to Hell For Sure Pass and exploring Red Mountain Basin along the Leconte Divide, past the Devil's Punchbowl (love that name), following the trail down along Meadow Brook to meet with North Fork of Kings River and back out along Post Coral Meadows. Highest camp will be around 11,000 feet and lowest around 7,000.

Anyone done any of this area?

Should be about 6 days of packing and two of exloring. Temps around 25 F at night and 60 during the day. Been dehyrating (or rather, the Mrs. has) lots of gourment meals (anyone read Lipsmackin Backpackin? That, combined with the great recipes in Mel's book, makes for the gastronomical bomb!).

Taking the alchy stove (big debate with the white gas stove, weight vs. reliability, etc.), got the TarpTent all weatherproofed, fishing gear all ready to roll, two bear cans. I'll have to break out the oldie but goodie Dana Designs for this trip. The 3,500 ci light pack just won't cut it for space...

Man, I love backpacking. Hope everyone has some fall trips in the works. This is a GREAT time of the year to hit the trail.

Will share pics when I return.

J.”

“I hate you.”

“Bowlderman! With the pics, it'll be like you were there!”

“Thanks, rosey! I'll just keep telling myself that....”