9 Lakes Basin vs. MK XC Exploring?

[Lenier]

I'm going a loop this year out of Franklin Lake TH in Mineral King. I'm debating between doing some exploration of 9 Lakes Basin versus spending more time in MK itself, doing some off trail exploration around Crystal, Little 5 Lakes, and possibly Spring Lake.

I'm sure either place will be incredible, but would love to hear some thoughts if anyone is willing to share!

[grampy]

Lenier -
though this doesn't exactly answer your question, there is a nice TR by kpeter from 2017 ... a CCW "Mineral Ming loop" starting out over Franklin Pass:
viewtopic.php?t=16533

[thegib]

Spring lake is very beautiful, but 9 lakes basin has more to offer.

[Wandering Daisy]

Does anyone know which would be the best for fishing? I have only fished Nine Lakes Basin- easy to catch small fish.

You could do an overnight to Nine Lakes Basin from Little 5 Lakes. Why not just wait and see when you get to Little 5 Lakes. Do not feel pushed while in Mineral King; Maybe you will just like something on the way as more interesting. If you have extra time at Little 5 Lakes then do the overnight.

Although if I were to do Nine Lakes Basin there are more scenic and easier routes to get there.