Day hikes / summits from little lakes valley

[Ultrajen]

I just switched a backpacking trip from second lake/Palisades to Little Lakes Valley . It's less distance than I wanted but thinking the relatively flat trail is better for a 14-year-old, or me to survive the complaining Thinking we can drop the packs at jam lakes and a hike from there. this looks just as beautiful but we wanted to be up there three nights so I'm wondering if someone could recommend day hikes or perhaps one of the easier surrounding peaks. We both rock climb but I wouldn't feel comfortable above class III with him.

[cgundersen]

Hi Ultrajen,
Anywhere in that basin is gorgeous and there are lots of spots to camp around Gem Lakes, so that's a good target. You'll be constrained for where you can go on day hikes by the large amount of snow that will still be lurking. Normally, there are various different routes that one can take to get up to Dade Lake (including ones that require a bit of class 3, if so desired), but it could be that there will still be snow in most of the crevices there. still, it's a nice stroll up toward Ruby Lake and by now there should be plenty of footprints over Mono Pass (see Wandering Daisy's report on her trip to Pioneer Basin). Alternatively, aim for Treasure Lakes. It'll all be good.
Cameron

[maverick]

Most recent TR into LVL will give you an idea of the current conditions:: http://www.highsierratopix.com/communit ... ey#p122571