High Sierra Topix

In the old days, I did 40 consecutive years of Whitney up and down in a day (east side). Finally it caught up with me, and I failed for 41. I just wasn't feeling that good, so I bailed. Then the following year I came across the High Sierra Trail from Giant Forest, then ascended the west side from Crabtree. That worked and I exited by Cottonwood Pass. For this year, I entered by Shepherd Pass and did the west side again. That was Year 42.

I don't recommend Shepherd Pass.

It's a direct route in if you don't mind the punishment :-)

I don't recommend Shepherd Pass.

It's a little work, but the views toward the Upper Kern / Kaweah's are well worth to me.

Hmmm. Next time you can carry my backpack and I will enjoy the views.

You got it, but only if you then carry all my camera gear. :-)

I put helium inserts in the side pockets of my camera bag to reduce the effective weight. Otherwise, the porters start to complain.