R03/R01 TR: Cottonwood Lakes/Mt. Langley July 2017

[Flycaster5150]

My son and I just returned from a four day excursion into the Cottonwood Lakes with hopes of making it all the way to Mt. Langley. After reading other's reports and numerous calls to the ranger station on Lone Pine, I was still uncertain whether we could actually make it all the way to Langley. We just needed to go and if conditions dictated us turning back then we were prepared for that. The first day took us into the Cottonwood Lakes basin where we set up camp along the shores of #3. We had a great view of the lake and the mountains rising up from the shores on the opposite side. We could even see our Mt. Langley. The next day we attempted to make it to the top. Our biggest concern was New Army pass but that proved to be unnecessary as we were able to get up to the top via a narrow opening between the snow and rock outcroppings. Once we made that it was just huffing and puffing, literally, our way to the top of Langley. Once we got to the top the sense of accomplishment rejuvenated us as we took in the gorgeous views from 14,000 feet. After getting back down off the mountain and back to camp for some well deserved rest, we spent the next day just relaxing, doing a little fishing, and just enjoying the scenery. Thanks to all on this board that helped me plan for this trip.

Steve

[maverick]

Congratulations to you and your son, Steve!
How old is your son? What other trips have you done together?

[jeremiahkim]

Great photos! Looks like it was a wonderful trip with your son.

How was the fishing?

[Matthewkphx]

Great photos! That looks like an excellent trip.

[Flycaster5150]

Maverick

My son is 13. This was his second trip up to the Sierras. The week before he did Blue Lake with his scout troop. We have also done some local Socal stuff also.

Jeremiahkim

Fishing was really good. Lots of goldens on the fly at #5.

[Jimr]

When I was 13, my uncle took me to Blue Lake. That was 1974. It was a wonderful introduction to the Sierra. I took my son there in 2009. He was 11. My mother used to back pack there when she was pre-teen. She's 78. My family has quite a history with Blue Lake. Last month, I took my girlfriend there. She's been all over the Sierra, but this was her first time in this watershed.

[giantbrookie]

Nice. I especially like the summit shot and the scrambling shot of your son. It reminds me of the photos my dad took of me when I was that age.

[freestone]

Awesome shot of Whitney. Definitely my favorite view of Whitney, is standing on top of Langley. Were you trying get a picture of the bird or your son climbing?

[Bob12345]

Does anyone know if Old Army Pass is now open without snow?

Bob