High Sierra Topix

Hi all,

Officially new to this site, but already love the positivity and support it offers. Looking forward to people's expertise.

I have a ~32mi route planned out for 4D/3N in early August--North Lake - Piute Pass - Carol Col - Elba Lake - Pine Creek Pass - Granite Park - Royce Pass - French Canyon - Hutchinson Meadow - Piute Pass - North Lake.

Two XC passes planned--Carol Col then Royce Pass. Are these doable with a dog? Carol Col will be South-North and Royce Pass will be North-->South. Been browsing info here and online but wanted personal opinions.

Dog is a strong hiker as a German Shepherd/Hound/Lab mix--can do up to 12mi daily. Except we haven't had hardly any XC with her... Hikers are Level 3, comfortable with snow travel and river crossings. Would appreciate any insight into the passes, especially with a canine. Thanks!

Carol Col is easy except for the first step down (a bit of air there.) It's a path down after that. Dog will be fine. Not sure about Royce.

If the dog has a pack on (with a handle) It makes it easier. But.. sounds like your dog is 67ish lbs? Thing I usually do is sit there a second.. think about it, and then make a decision on how. You'll be fine I think. Are you fishing?

And get and train her with booties. You might need them if the paws go raw..

Gotcha, thanks re: Carol Col. That's the one I was more concerned about with her. I've been using the map here to take a look at the photos. Hug the wall...

Funny, I think you guessed her weight exactly. Maybe 65. She'll have a pack with the handle. Her booties are a must with the granite and talus in the Sierras--and that's ON trail! Maybe we'll take them off for scrambling--she grips those rocks better without them on.

No, we won't be fishing.

Have a nice trip!! looking forward to the TR and lots of pics..

This will help: viewtopic.php?f=1&t=7966&hilit=carol+co ... dog#p57844
Royce is easier than Carol.

Mav, get a dog already.. then you can chime in.

Mav, get a dog already.. then you can chime in.

You know the deal Russ.

Maverick--awesome. Thanks for that link, I hadn't found that thread yet. I think we decided to take Hazel and spread out the two passes just in case. My understanding is the Carol Col is easiest approaching from Mesa Lake and traveling towards Puppet. This true?

Rlown, definitely be expecting a TR and pics!

My understanding is the Carol Col is easiest approaching from Mesa Lake and traveling towards Puppet. This true?

Yes it is. viewtopic.php?f=31&t=7686&p=92064&hilit=carol#p55461