High Sierra Topix

Sorry to join the chorus of "has anybody been here?" but a friend was planning on taking, in the next two weeks, our scout troop on the loop starting at Twin Lakes and passing through Peeler Lake, Rancheria Creek, Benson Lake, Smedburg Lake, Benson Pass, Matterhorn Canyon Mule and Burro Passes and back to Twin Lakes. The trail is probably still very snowy and I suspect that at least one of the stream crossings is rather hairy for Boy Scouts, but would appreciate any further inside this August group may have. Already checked the PCT thruhiker reports, which are also pretty frightening. Your help is much appreciated.

Hi Ikan Mas

Cannot give current 411, but Seavey Pass area is very pretty, the wild
flower can be outstanding, and the lakes scattered off the trail are outstanding.
Would recommend going down Matterhorn Canyon, Benson Pass, than climbing up
both by doing the hike clockwise.
Also Surprise, and Sister Lakes behind Smedberg are pretty, and may offer more
solitude if needed.
Some folks love Benson Lakes, or more percisely the beach, which kids may
love, but personally don't care for it much.
Expect, and prepare for nasty swarm's of mosquito's.
Rancheria Creek may be the main issue.
Check this thread out for discussions on the subject, scroll down to bill-e.g's post where
he has 3 links to prior posts included discussing this area. http://www.yosemite.ca.us/forum/viewtop ... b&start=15" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;