High Sierra Topix

We are planning a two night trip the end of June to either the Vogelsang or Glen Aulin area and plan to camp a bit away from the HSC. I'm a little concerned there might still be snow that time of year and wondering what others think - should we lean toward Glen Aulin and lower elevation? Also, we plan to day hike on day 2 of the trip. Any advice on which has better day hike options (Glen Aulin or Vogelsang)?

For late June, depending on snow which is currently at ~74" up at Dana Meadows, My choice between the two you've suggested would be Vogelsang.

Vogelsang: area has much more to offer in terms of a variety of day hikes to different lakes or views. It's uphill to get there, which means your exit would be all downhill. You can visit Ireland or Evelyn Lakes for the view or head up to Vogelsang pass to view "the other side."

Glen Aulin: It's downhill to the HSC for sure, but the trails might be flooded in spots getting there at melt out. The only real day hike destinations are down the Tuolumne river towards Le Conte and Waterwheel falls. Your trip on the trail will most likely be flooded in the area of the trail below the bridges (the real Glen Aulin) where the ghost forest is before California falls. Also the hike out is all uphill.

The other area to consider would be near SaddleBag lake towards the North. Very pretty country and lots to see there. The trails are relatively flat and lots of scenery.

Food for thought,

Russ

PS: welcome to the HST! Post an intro as well, as they give us some background on your capabilities (esp at altitude)

You'll need to camp more than a mile from the HSC, not just a bit. Or you're in the backpacker sites that are designated by the HSC.

The camp will not be open if there is snow on the ground. Given we're over 100% of average, finally, yay, that seems pretty likely. Even if the pass opens (they plow it, so it will be open) there will be snow in the high country, in varying amounts, potentially obscuring trails.

As for better day hike options that depends on what you want. Glen Aulin has waterfall after waterfall down the river, meadows, etc. Vogelsang will have the high lakes and Vogelsang Peak as options.

Two entirely different trips.
Glen Aulin - 5 - 6 miles, and lose 500 ft from TM...trail moseys along the river and mostly into/through the forest. Think green, mossy, (and buggy?). Easy 2 - 3 hour hike in - one way, but main campsite (just over the wall from the HSC) sort of sucks. Highlight would be a visit to the falls below Glen Aulin...relatively easy both ways, coming and going. One night is all you really need here...two nights would be pretty laid back.

Where Glen Aulin is maybe a "7+", the Vogelsang area is a "10".

Vogelsang - 7.4 miles - a bit of a bi-tch trail to start out using Rafferty Creek - switchbacks and dust, (and 1,500+ feet elevation to gain - the hike in will take most of the day.) Trail levels out a bit half way, and once at the pass, wide open granite, amazing views, and much to explore. When you think Sierra, this is what you are really looking for. Suggest spending two nights here and coming back down on day 3.

Hi Cindy,

Welcome to HST! Please read the following: viewtopic.php?f=1&t=4205
Answer the questions, this will give us an idea of you and your groups expereince levels and preferrences.
Both of the areas you are inquiring about have much to offer, check previous trip reports and pictures to these areas, they will help you make an informed decision based on your personal requirements.

This is the first time in several years that waterwheel falls is likely to be "prime" during that time period. Therefore I would head to Glen Aulin for 2 nights with trip to the falls during your layover day. Vogelsang will always be there!

Mike

Like others have said it depends on what you want to see. If big mountain scenery with lakes is on your list, then go to Vogelsang. If waterfalls (and waterwheels) is on your list, go to Glen Aulin.
IMO, camping at Glen Aulin is somewhat more limited than Vogelsang. Plenty of room to spread out in Vogelsang.
I've been to both and for me Vogelsang is the clear choice. But you should hike your own hike (HYOH )

Thanks! Great advice and so speedy! I appreciate the tips and perspectives. I'll be sure to post a trip report if I can wrangle a permit!

Cindy,

In June a day before permit is pretty easy for 1 or 2 people. Markskor can tell you how early to get there.

Mike

If you decide on Glen Aulin, be aware the trail will probably be flooded in places. (It was last year when I went to Waterwheel and LeConte on June 1.) Also there are a lot of nice campsites below Glen Aulin, especially around California Falls and LeConte Falls. These offer a lot more privacy and even a sense of solitude, unlike overcrowded Glen Aulin. Whichever place you choose, have a great trip.