High Sierra Topix

Clover Meadow was the start of the loop over Fernandez Pass, into the Red Peak Pass area, over Isberg Pass, and back.

Dreamer

Sweet Sierra's idea is a great one! More specifically a loop trip starting From the Fernandez Pass trailhead over Fernandez Pass, then to Red Peak Pass and out over Post Peak Pass is a comfortable trip for the longest window you have (or reverse). A few caveats are in order though. 1. Getting your permit at the visitor center in Oakhurst--make sure that a person who can issue the permit will be on duty or you will have to detour to Northfork to get your permit. I would not count on the permit office at Clover meadow being open after labor day and it is a little out of your way. 2. The closest store/restaurant with really limited options is at Beasore meadows close to an hours drive from trailhead. 3. Closest accomodations full service community is Oakhurst/Bass Lake. 4. Trailheads are about 7,000 ft elevation so you will have 3,000+/- ft climb facing you in the first day and a half. Spending one night at TH should be sufficient for acclimation. 5. The Granite Creek drainage is s. facing and water sources will probably be limited to lakes in September this year 6. The last mile to the TH is a bit rough but can be negotiated by standard vehicle if you drive carefully.

Mike

Sure the Fernandez option is good, but the OP said he needs to be able to get back
to his car which this option definitely does not have.

Maverick

They drive their car to Fernandez Pass TH and start and finish there. (no shuttle issue but much longer drive).

Mike

Quartz MT trailhead loop –
Chiquito Lake – Givens – Johnson - Royal Arch - Buena Vista – Hoover – Breeze – Chain - Chiquito...
Sort of reminds me of a fishing trip made last May.
I wonder what ever happened to that Trail Report...Mike?

Your right MIke! Was thinking that the OP could not start from the west since he
mentioned not being able to start from the Valley .

Thanks guys for the most helpful suggestions -- much appreciated. I think I like
Oleander's idea of a one-way hike from Tuolumne Meadows southbound on the JMT, exiting at Agnew Meadows best, but will look at my maps and read up more carefully.

Saltygod: My reason for acclimating at TM for 2 days is that form my past experiences, we find it tough hiking out the first day after flying in from sea level - even without much on our backs. I recall puffing away pretty hard on a dayhike From TM to Parker Pass for instance. Plus that would mean leaving with 2 more days' worth of food and fear the total weight would be a bit much starting off.

Thanks again - great to feel that passion!