McCabe Pass and Glen Aulin Camping (from Saddlebag)

[jhevener]

We are leaving this Saturday for a 5 night backpack out of Saddlebag (having gotten a no-limit permit), with Exit at Tuolumne. First night in 20 lakes area (thinking about hike up to Conness Lakes for lunch -- or touring around Lake Helen side) and camping night one at Steelhead, Shamrock or open to suggestions. Day two is up to Secret Lake and over McCabe Pass to camp at Lower McCabe. Day three down PCT to Glen Aulin and curious if Backpackers Campsite is open and available with general backcountry permit. If not open or if you have other suggestions in this area pleas share. Day 4 is over and up to Youngs Lakes (heard middle is best). Day 5 is back down to Tuolumne (and back home). We are a group of 8 with 2 fairly young but experienced Scouts (both summited San Gorgonio last weekend including scramble last 500 ft vertical to peak vs. staying on trail). Here is the proposed route:https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/m ... &sh=tfnakn

[SNOOOOW]

Day three down PCT to Glen Aulin and curious if Backpackers Campsite is open and available with general backcountry permit.

Glen Aulin and May Lake backpackers camp are both open. Tent cabins are up and occupied at May and most likely Glen Aulin as well

[bobby49]

At the last time that I was in this area, we started from Saddlebag Lake and went over the Shepherd's Crest to the Upper McCabe Lake on the first day. For the second day, we went up and over Don't Be a Smart Pass and down to Roosevelt Lake, then continued to Young Lakes. Of the three lakes there, in my opinion, the middle lake is the best. The upper lake often has far too many mosquitos, and the lower lake has far too many people. For a layover day, you can day hike Mount Conness and back. For another day, go down the main Young Lakes Trail halfway, then cut over to Glen Aulin. For the last day, head out to Tuolumne Meadows. I would skip May Lake. It is too close to the road, so it gets a lot of people.

[balzaccom]

Yep--I'd highly recommend the dayhike to climb Conness from Youngs Lakes.

It also possible to go from Glen Aulin to either Roosevelt or Youngs Lakes directly cross-country, so no need to go into Glen Aulin at all.

[jhevener]

Thanks everyone for your comments. So great to be part of this Community !!!

[FeetFirst]

The newest cloud-free Sentinel-2 satellite image, which is dated July 14, shows a few inconsequential patches of snow on the east side of McCabe Pass. They'll surely be smaller by your trip if not completely gone. You should be fine. Have fun!

[jhevener]

Thanks @feetfirst !