High Sierra Topix

Hi Community,

Having a hard time deciding which trip to take - both starting 7/9.

1) Kearsarge Pass to Rae Lakes and back - 4-5 nights.

2) Lyell Canyon through Vogelsang to Merced Lake looping back through Emeric Lake and out Rafferty Creek - 5 nights.

I need to make a decision soon!

Thanks, Jason

Which trip would I choose? Well, that depends ... on what you are looking for. Also, where you can get a permit (and if you already have permits for both, then why are you hoarding permits?). Tell us more about your goals and what kind of country you like.
-Phil

I think the Yosemite loop may have more mosquitoes than the Rae Lakes loop. Rae Lakes likely more crowded; Yosemite loop less alpine scenery, more sub-alpine.

Thanks Phil and Wandering Daisy. Sorry for hoarding permits Phil - I do have both of them already. I like granite mixed with good fishing lakes and am leaning towards Rae Lakes (Wandering Daisy's comments seem to go along with what my tastes are). The scenery on that route sounds insane and I've never been to the area. Did Lyell Canyon to Vogelsang out Rafferty Creek last year but really want to check out Merced Lake. I almost feel like a thru hike to the valley would be the best option for the Yosemite trip but I don't want to ride the Yarts bus right now. Don't really mind more people because I am hiking with my 11 and 13 years old boys and my 18 year old daughter. So Phil, now that I've given you more info, which route would you choose? I am assuming this is the same Phil who posts on Yosemite backpacking forums? You've given me excellent advice on trips in the past on that forum.

If you add in 60 Lakes Basin and Dragon Lake to the Rae Lakes visit, then definitely #1.

I agree with Rae Lakes. Yes, it is crowded, but that is because it is an utterly awesome place.

Hi Jason.
I'll add to what Mav said. I have a few trip memories that really stand out. One of my favorites was Onion Valley to Kearsarge Lakes then over Gardiner Pass into Gardiner Basin. We had a rest day at the high lake (11,394 on the 15 minute quad). Then 60 lakes Basin, Rae Lakes and last night at Charlotte. There was some good fishing, and some exploring - the remains of one of Shorty Lovelace's small cabins is just about at the lowest point the route gets in Gardiner Basin.
Have a great time!
-mort

I'll add to what Mav said. I have a few trip memories that really stand out. One of my favorites was Onion Valley to Kearsarge Lakes then over Gardiner Pass into Gardiner Basin.

Wanted to include Gardiner, but wasn't sure whether 60 Lakes Col was in the OP's comfort level and range, also, 4 nights is a little short, 5 is better.

Thanks for all the responses. I’ve got to check the map - we’ve got 5 nights.