Seeking Advice: Fastest Route from Fletcher Lake to Ireland Lake?

[Midnight Sun]

Hey fellow backpackers,

Next week we are planning on heading out from Tuolumne Meadows via Rafferty Canyon, past Fletcher Lake, and onward to Ireland Lake. From there, we'll be crossing over Amelia Earhart Pass and heading down to the Maclure Creek area.

Here's where I need your help:

Would it be faster to stick to the traditional trail to Ireland Lake, or should I take the route via Townsley Lake and go cross-country from there to Ireland Lake? I'm comfortable with off-trail travel, but time might be an issue for us at this juncture, so I'm seeking the faster option. The cross-country route is definitely shorter, but as we all know, shorter doesn’t always mean faster when you’re off-trail.

I'd love to hear any insights, especially from those who've done this route. Also, if you have any tips for navigating the cross-country section, I'd appreciate that as well!

Thanks in advance for your help!

Cheers,
Conor

[Wandering Daisy]

Unless the weather is bad, I would go x-c via Townsley- it is so scenic. Once up on the plateau there are many easy routes over Ireland Lake. It certainly is shorter. Camping at Townsley is quite nice- there is a nice flat spot behind a huge rock as well as sites at the inlet.

[Midnight Sun]

Unless the weather is bad, I would go x-c via Townsley- it is so scenic. Once up on the plateau there are many easy routes over Ireland Lake. It certainly is shorter. Camping at Townsley is quite nice- there is a nice flat spot behind a huge rock as well as sites at the inlet.

Excellent! Thank you. I think this is what we'll do.

Conor

[Midnight Sun]

Unless the weather is bad, I would go x-c via Townsley- it is so scenic. Once up on the plateau there are many easy routes over Ireland Lake. It certainly is shorter. Camping at Townsley is quite nice- there is a nice flat spot behind a huge rock as well as sites at the inlet.

Townsley Lake was amazing. Incredibly scenic as you mentioned. Tons of fish too. Thanks again.

[FeetFirst]

Agreed! Townsley is a beaut. Spent a night there this year back in late August. Also went to Maclure Lake/Creek via Amelia Earhart Pass.