If you've been searching for the best source of information and stimulating discussion related to Spring/Summer/Fall backpacking, hiking and camping in the Sierra Nevada...look no further!
Of course I was kidding, mostly. Anyways, I recently visited Highland Lake for a night starting from Van Vleck TH and bagged Tells Peak on the return trip. I should have moseyed on over the ridge to McConnell Peak, but time was short. Highland Lake is an absolute gem and I had it all to my lonesome on Labor Day weekend. I'll post pictures & short report soon.
I'm still rather convinced that you can achieve more than you've ever dreamed of if you just lower your standards.