Alpine flowers, best areas?

[msshea]

Hi,

I'm flying into San Francisco tomorrow and heading off into the White Mountains and the Great Basin National Park, then into the Sierras the week of the 10th. I"m wondering if anyone can suggest some south or north facing slopes where I might find some nice fields of flowers for late afternoon/sunset or sunrise shots. I'm doing only day hikes because of heavy photo equipment, although I don't mind hiking in or out in darkness with a headlamp. I'll be able to check this board every few days, so thanks in advance for any suggestions.

Thanks a lot,
Merrill

[SSSdave]

I was just up in the White Mountain bristlecone reserve June 30 > July 3. There were surprisingly few wildflowers below 10k. What was odd is that above 10k there are more wildflowers currently than I've ever seen. However due to winds, most are short belly flowers that are difficult to work into landscape shots and otherwise just good for closeup shots. The area near the Schulman Grove at the end of the paved highway had the best wildflowers.

Along the Eastern Sierra in the Owens Valley currently I would recommend looking for wildflowers in the lower areas between 7k and 9k. Places like the canyon trail for 1 mile immediately above Convict Lake ought to look well. Also the areas along the roads along Bishop Creek or Rock Creek at those elevations. ...David

[ifernau]

I was just along the McGee Creek Canyon June 24th and July 3rd. Most Lupine and Mule Ears are past peak. Desert Paint Brush is blooming as well as a few other wild flowers I cannot name. Mosquitoes are fierce, so prepare for them if you go.

http://magicalglow.com/For-The-Web/June-24-2006.html

http://magicalglow.com/For-The-Web/5D_0843.jpg