Copper Creek Trail -- Kings Canyon

[Cross Country]

I hiked to LTM, UTM, Grouse, and believe it or not half way between UTM and Grouse, sleeping right by Copper Creek where we stayed with another group (2). My best choice is to start at about 1PM and hike to LTM. It's hard to believe, but hiking it in the afternoon is cooler than the morning because there is nearly always a nice breeze in the afternoon and is almost completely still in the morning. The worst time is from 9AM to noon. My experience applies almost entirely to late June early July hiking.

[TehipiteTom]

I always thought LTM was kind of a pit. (# of people)/(views) > my maximum. Also, it barely gets you halfway up the climb...which is still substantial after UTM, but much more manageable than it is from LTM.

The most important thing, IMO, is to get your permit the day before so you don't have to wait 'til 7:00 am + (time consumed by permit process) to hit the trail. Get a 6:30 start and you'll be up at UTM by noon.

[ndwoods]

I think LTM is a pit....however....the one time I stayed there we had the place to ourselves and a herd of about 10 deer stayed the night and about 5-6 youngsters romped and played in abandon til well after dark....was delightful!