High Sierra Topix

What's water availability look like between Panther Gap and Alta Meadow this time of year?

thanks
-Matt

The most reliable source is usually Mehrten Creek, about 1.2 miles or so from Panther Gap - there's an obvious use trail that cuts down to it from the main trail. The last gully before you hit Alta Meadow usually has some flow still in early July, even in a dry year.

thanks

In late August 2020 (a dry year) I found multiple small streams coming through the meadow. As you walk down towards the bottom of the meadow, you should encounter them. Especially if you are going in July.

Had the same question, bumping the thread in case anyone's been up there recently. Is there water at Mehrten or anywhere between there and Moose Lake? Thanks.

I haven't been up there this summer, but if I remember correctly from previous trips, there's a trailside spring tucked between Mehrten Creek and the Alta Peak trail. The meadow itself is also laced with springs / small streams, as David mentioned - you're bound to run into 'em as you cross. Depending on which route you're taking up to Moose, there's a tiny tarn south of the lake that's right next to an old use trail, located on the far side of the ridgeline that runs southeast from "Winter Alta" (i.e. peak 11328).

Thanks for the info, just reporting back. As of yesterday trickles remain at Mehtrten, the spring on the trail to the peak, the last gully before the meadow and that's about it.

jôhorn wrote: ↑Tue Aug 09, 2022 11:15 am Thanks for the info, just reporting back.

QITNL, I presume?

Welcome, and I'd love to see more of your excellent photos any time you'd like to share.