Moraine Lake into Big Arroyo

[Nozmo King]

My buddy & I will be backpacking in Mineral King next week. We're considering - emphasis on considering - going X-country from Moraine Lake into Big Arroyo. Has anyone out there ever tried out &, if so, how would you describe the level of difficulty?

About 4 years ago, we ran into a couple of guys in Big Arroyo who had climbed down one of its steep, rocky walls. They took a way more hazardous route than we want to try. Further down canyon - almost due south of Moraine Lake - it looks moderate & not so steep that you'd need ropes, etc. I've surveyed the route from the Willow Creek trail side of Big Arroyo, & it didn't look so bad, but that could be deceiving.

Anyhow, if anyone has any experience with trying the route, or know anyone who has, I'd be interested in hearing your thoughts.

[fourputt]

The goat path is a useful xctry route. I've done it several times; ascending is harder to find.

Start due south from midpoint between Morraine Lake and Sky Parlor Mdw for the drop off. Aim towards confluence of Willow and Big Arroyo trying to stay on broken stuff and *off* smooth or grassy slabs.

[Nozmo King]

Thanks! I'm thinking we'll try that route. Is there a discernible path or any ducks or is it strictly X-country?

[fourputt]

You'll doubtless find ducks. And advice is worth what you pay for it.