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Thanks for the info everyone!
There were a limited number of permits that worked with my dates so my plan B trip may be Fern Lake Trailhead late July. If neither trip works out I may just call it for the Eastern Sierras this year and try again for next. I appreciate all the feedback!
in other words, walk around most of the lake. In normal years you can cross the outlet stream and go directly to the north side, but this year the outlet stream will be too high, especially in July.
actually. you can stay on the north side of the outlet stream by following a use trail at the log crossing below the lake. a rough track, but doable. still must negotiate a field of boulders before you get to the northside campsites, not easy but also doable.
The log crossing was cracked in the middle and badly sloped in July '15. I don't recall if it was fixed when I went by there last year, I didn't get very close. If it's still broken, the slope is not much problem when dry, but it is slippery when wet. Doh, the MCL tear took 4 months to heal.
I appreciate all the feedback!