R03/R01 TR: Evolution region butterfly loop (Evo Basin, Evo Valley, McGee Lakes, & Lake 11092) - August 2020

[kylekuzma]

I really enjoyed your report, photos, and video snippets. Darwin Canyon, Darwin Bench, Evolution Valley, and McGee Lakes are among my favorite locations in the Sierra and one of the most stunningly beautiful. Your vivid, eloquent descriptions did them justice.

Laurence that means an insane amount coming from you. Your Kaweah Basin report, which i quoted in my report of the region, was one of my inspirations to start writing TRs in the first place. Thanks again

[Harlen]

What a cool trip. Thanks for putting together this fine TR. I really enjoyed reading your report, and seeing your photos and videos. Like wildhiker, I have never been up McGee Creek, and I really like the look of that wild area. I have also long desired to get into the McGee Lakes; I looked down at that amazing turquoise lake at the top of Goddard Creek, and decided that I absolutely had to get there-- preferably in summer, for a change, just to gaze into that beautiful blue color. Thanks again for the inspiration Max, this is the very best thing you can do for us via our HST connection.

[robertseeburger]

Very nice trip report. I especially enjoyed the wide angle photos.. And to me the best was just the old standard one..from evolution valley looking up to Darwin.. cant get tired of looking at this shot, and yours was excellent. I did a trip up to McGee Lakes in 2017, a heavy snow year, and everything was frozen so it was good to see your shots...they are better. I went over McGee Pass ( I mistakenly called it Sapphire Pass in my TR) and I had a difficult time..had to lower my pack in places..but that was due to steep snow. Looks like you had some problems descending as well, but not too bad.
There is a good use trail that angles more to McGee Lakes coming from Colby Meadow, further north than your line. Looks like your route takes a shortcut..probably saved some time. Really enjoyed your report!

[frozenintime]

great report!

i was scheduled to do the exact same trip (minus 11092 & without a base camp) starting august 21, but the smoke was bad enough that day that ritter was barely visible from the mamoth cam. hopefully 2021 works out.

ps congrats on the new contract

[kylekuzma]

Thanks again for the inspiration Max, this is the very best thing you can do for us via our HST connection.

Happy I could help Harlen. I've definitely enjoyed some of your TRs over the past few years so figure it returning the favor