For your amusement ... trip advice from AI

[wildhiker]

I decided to try out this ChatGPT that everyone is talking about. I got access to GPT-4 and asked this question:

"Plan a seven day backpacking trip that starts and ends at the Quartz Mountain trailhead in the Sierra National Forest and enters Yosemite National Park to make a loop hike around the Clark Range"

We know that AI models are trained by scooping up information from the internet. Amuse yourself with the answer it provided below from this "crowd-sourced" data. The geography of this itinerary is impossible!

Best to ask for advice on HST!

-Phil

GPT-4o:
Planning a seven-day backpacking trip that starts and ends at the Quartz Mountain Trailhead in the Sierra National Forest, while making a loop around the Clark Range and entering Yosemite National Park, will take you through some of the most beautiful terrain in the Sierra Nevada. Below is a detailed itinerary for your adventure.
Itinerary: Seven-Day Loop Around the Clark Range

Day 1: Quartz Mountain Trailhead to Sphinx Creek
• Distance: 10 miles
• Elevation Gain: ~1,500 ft
• Start at the Quartz Mountain Trailhead and head towards Sphinx Creek. The trail features beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. You will pass through mixed conifer forests and start to get a feel for the high Sierra.
• Camp: Sphinx Creek (or nearby)

Day 2: Sphinx Creek to Red Peak Pass
• Distance: 8 miles
• Elevation Gain: ~2,500 ft
• Ascend towards Red Peak Pass today. This climb is steep but rewards you with stunning panoramic views of the Clark Range and surrounding areas. Take your time to enjoy the scenery as you approach the pass.
• Camp: Near Red Peak Pass or just below it (be sure to find a suitable water source)

Day 3: Red Peak Pass to Merced Lake
• Distance: 10 miles
• Elevation Gain: ~800 ft (but some elevation loss as well)
• Descend from Red Peak Pass and head towards Merced Lake. The trail meanders through beautiful meadows and alongside forested areas. Merced Lake offers great spots for fishing and relaxing.
• Camp: Merced Lake Campground

Day 4: Merced Lake to Little Yosemite Valley
• Distance: 11 miles
• Elevation Gain: ~1,000 ft
• Hike from Merced Lake to Little Yosemite Valley, another scenic and popular destination. As you trek along, you’ll be treated to the sights of cascading rivers and towering granite cliffs, and you can enjoy views towards Half Dome.
• Camp: Little Yosemite Valley

Day 5: Little Yosemite Valley to Yosemite Creek/Campground
• Distance: 7 miles
• Elevation Gain: ~1,200 ft
• Depart from Little Yosemite Valley and head up to Yosemite Creek. This section offers beautiful views of both Yosemite Valley and the surrounding terrain as you hike through stunning granite landscapes.
• Camp: Yosemite Creek (the campground/available sites)

Day 6: Yosemite Creek to Porcupine Flat
• Distance: 8 miles
• Elevation Gain: ~1,500 ft
• Hike from Yosemite Creek to Porcupine Flat. Enjoy the forests and meadows along the way, and as you get closer to Porcupine Flat, enjoy views of the cliffs and valleys below.
• Camp: Porcupine Flat or in nearby camping areas

Day 7: Porcupine Flat back to Quartz Mountain Trailhead
• Distance: 12 miles
• Elevation Gain: ~1,000 ft (but mostly downhill)
• On your final day, make your way back down towards Quartz Mountain Trailhead. The first part of the hike may require some elevation, but it generally descends toward the beginning point. Enjoy the last views of the Sierra Nevada as you complete your loop.

Important Considerations:
• Permits: Obtain the necessary wilderness permits for both Sierra National Forest and Yosemite National Park. Reservations can often be made online.
• Bear Safety: Carry bear canisters, and practice Leave No Trace principles to protect the wilderness.
• Water Sources: Be prepared to filter or purify your water from streams, lakes, or rivers along the trail.
• Weather: Check forecasts and be prepared for changing conditions in the Sierra Nevada, especially in higher elevations.
• Navigation: Bring a topographic map, a compass, and/or a GPS device to help with navigation in the backcountry.

This loop trail around the Clark Range will provide you with breathtaking scenery, diverse ecosystems, and a fulfilling outdoor experience. Enjoy your adventure in the Sierra Nevada!