High Sierra Topix

Thanks to both of you for your thoughtful comments and suggestions. Yes, I would definitely backpack into Pioneer Basin (over Mono Pass), not day hike. I am not a big peak bagger type actually, but it is nice to know what is possible in the area. I am more into doing moderate day hiking after backpacking in and set up with a base camp, so I would probably be exploring the different lakes, recesses, canyons, etc. and enjoying the beauty to be seen. I do like to move each day with the backpack, too. Just depends on the trip and the plans.

Living down in San Diego and working full time makes it difficult to get up to the Sierra a lot, but I have done a number of backpack and camping trips over the years. I was lucky to work a season each at Yosemite NP and Sequoia NF, too, so those were great experiences.

There is nothing like the High Sierra!

John

You should do Mt. Starr also, since it's such an easy jaunt from Mono Pass. Mono Pass is disappointing in its lack of views, so it's particularly worth the effort to get up a bit higher.

Thank you for the tip on Mt. Starr. Views are always nice and sounds like a relatively easy route from the 12,000 foot Mono Pass.