Advice: Second attempt to Garnet/1000 Island on 6/24-6/27

[adam]

pardon me if this is insultingly obvious, but do you have waterproof boots and gaiters--and ski or trekking poles? I ask only because growing up in CA, I always considered these pieces of equipment "extreme"-- jeans and lightweight boots worked just fine for me-- and as a result, considered hiking in spring (or summer) snow "extreme" as well. It wasn't until living in WA and hiking the cascades that I realized that with a little bit better equipment, the snow could be your friend.

Regarding the previous posts, as beautiful as 1000 island lake is, you'd be crazy to consider going up there and missing out on ediza, even if it is covered by snow.

[Matilda]

I did not get the permit yet, wanted to gather as much information as I could on the conditions up there. Last I checked those dates were still open for reservations, but we'll be there very early morning so we'll be able to get a walk-in.

We wanted to go the Rush Creek ascent mainly because we didn't complete our ascent to 1000 Island last time and a friend will be coming from the Sacramento area. With all the reading I've been doing and your suggestion, I've now decided it'd be best to go through Agnew Meadows this time. I think we'll be taking the reverse route that maverick recommended, taking the high trail to 1000 Island with the Ediza leg being optional depending on the conditions and how we feel at the time.

I'm hoping that I'll be able to make it up to the Sierras regularly after a few trips, so all the info from these forums and its members are great.

I also urge you to postpone your trip--I live in the Eastern Sierra high country and there is still a ton of snow about 9,000 feet. Because of a cold, snowy spring, the big thaw just hasn't happened and you will be traveling on solid snow in late June.
Friendly suggestion for you and anyone interested in learning more about the Sierra and in helping take care of places you love: Friends of the Inyo, a local conservation group in Bishop, is leading a volunteer vacation to the Thousand Island Lake area the first week of August. Get packed in, do some trail work and habitat restoration, have plenty of time off to play, all in a small group with an experienced, local guide. Get details here: http://friendsoftheinyo.org/foi/node/722

[EZHIKER]

I recommend the high trail out of Agnew Meadows. Check with the Mammoth Lakes visitor center to make sure the road is open, I know they have started to plow. The snow is melting rapidly and the trail should be just fine by your travel date.

[Jedi5150]

I recommend the high trail out of Agnew Meadows. Check with the Mammoth Lakes visitor center to make sure the road is open, I know they have started to plow. The snow is melting rapidly and the trail should be just fine by your travel date.

I just got back from Mammoth this morning. People are still skiing there and the road to Postpile/ Agnew Meadows is still closed and aparently in need of repairs.