High Sierra Topix

I know there is a ton to read on each of these trips, and I have probably read most all of it . And, I realize it's not the most exciting thing to discuss. But, I have a dilema.

I had plans for a 4 day, 3 night out and back - High Sierra Trail from Crescent Meadows to 9 Lakes Basin and back (I have permit already). My brother managed to find the time to come out from Vermont and join me. But, now we are also considering Rae Lakes loop in the same timeframe.

Personally, I think either one would be awesome and I plan to do both of them in the next year. But, he may not be out here again, so it's one or the other for him. We are both Level3, comfortable with up to Class2. Interested in Sierra scenery, taking pictures, and escaping the everyday realities.

My first thinking is that the Rae Lakes trip could benefit if we had one more day (we can only do 4 full days). But, I know it's doable for us. I'd like him to maximize his Sierra experience (he has never been in the Sierras). Which would you do? (this is for next week, 9/2-9/5)

PM sent.

Check the "alerts" on the SEKI website. There is (was) a fire on Chapoga Plateau and HST hikers were being escorted past the fire zone. They said to anticipate hours of delays.

There isn't much to choose between the two in mileage or elevation gain. Both will involve some very long days (unless you just do a day hike from Hamilton Lake to Kaweah Gap rather than camping in Nine Lakes Basin). So it really comes down to whether you prefer a loop, which obviously doesn't repeat the same areas, to an out and back.

Thanks for the tip on the fire at Chapoga Plateau. We won't be hiking that far east, but still the smoke could be an issue.

I guess it's pretty much a toss up. But, Tim, your post brings up a good point. With the out and back, we have more options to amend the days as desired, whereas with the loop we have to stick to the loop.

I've had a few other suggestions which are also great.