High Sierra Topix

I live in the Eastern Sierra, so I get up into the mountains as much as I can. The Cottonwood lakes area is such a special place! I started from the old Cottonwood Creek trailhead today. The weather was perfect! This trail is a delight! I like unsigned trails, because I am not a fan of continuous, well graded slogs. I dig more of a variation and a more natural vibe in my trail and this one has it in spades! There were so many wonderful campsite opportunities along the way. I would much rather acclimate the first night about a mile into this hike than at a campground next to a parking lot! Eventually, after traveling along with the creek on one side and dolomite and Foxtail pines on the right, you end up at the Golden Trout Camp. Due to Covid I assume, there was no one at the camp, and I am wondering if they allow folks to walk through their camp to access the mail trail. I crossed their quaint bridge and after entering the John Muir Wilderness, the trail starts climbing in earnest. When I finally arrived on the plateau and was able to wander over to the first Cottonwood Lake, I had lunch with my new marmot friend who I immediately named Murgatroyd. I then headed back as there are no wilderness permits yet this year. My Apple Watch said that the hike was 11.56 miles with 1,375 foot altitude gain.
I still haven't acclimated yet, but when I can start sleeping high, I will be happier!
Hike On! xo Deena

I’m thinking of headed up to cottonwood lakes in a couple of weeks to do some trout fishing. Did you go past the first lake and, if so, can you comment on snow conditions? It doesn’t look like I have anything to worry about from your pictures.

Hopefully the walk up permit situation is figured out by then. Thanks for the TR!

nice report - thanks!

counselor wrote: ↑Mon May 25, 2020 8:31 am I’m thinking of headed up to cottonwood lakes in a couple of weeks to do some trout fishing. Did you go past the first lake and, if so, can you comment on snow conditions? It doesn’t look like I have anything to worry about from your pictures.

Hopefully the walk up permit situation is figured out by then. Thanks for the TR!

I don't know about the camping permits yet, I think that is still up in the air. However, that whole area around and including the Cottonwood Lakes has special regs and is always closed to fishing until July 1st.

There was a little bit of snow on the trail here and there. Nothing to worry about though. Definitely check the area fishing refs. I did read that there is no fishing in the first lake. Maybe because there are no fish. I didn’t see any jumping and I watched for a while. I would head to the South fork lakes for fishing myself.

Looks like an awesome hike. Thanks for taking the time to post a report. I hope to get up there one of these days.

Great report! I can't wait to get out there myself!

Thank you for posting! Glad you enjoyed!

Thanks everyone!