R03 TR: Cottonwood Pass to Johnson Lake and Johnson Peak 5/30/25-05/31/25

[KathyW]

Another early season trip going over Cottonwood Pass.

This time I did an overnight backpack. I went over Cottonwood Pass through Big Whitney Meadow and on to near Barigan Stringer Creek (outlet from Rock Basin) to camp on the first day. On the second day I hiked cross-country to Johnson Peak and Johnson Lake before returning to camp, packing up, and hiking back out over Cottonwood Pass to Horseshoe Meadow.

I had planned to do this over three days and camp at the western side of Big Whitney Meadow but it was too early to stop when I got that far; so, I continued on to near Barigan Stringer Creek (maybe it is just called Barigan Stringer and "creek" is not needed). Then on the second day it was too early to stop when I got back to the Meadow; so, I continued on out over Cottonwood Pass.

No snow gear was needed. Cottonwood Pass was melted out and the snow on Johnson Peak was patchy and easy to go around most of the time. The few patches I went through were soft slop.

Lots of water available. Most of the time I carried less than a liter and just filtered and drank as I ran low. This area will get dry as the season progresses; so, this is a trip best done in the early part of the season.

There were a few mosquitos and gnats but they weren't a problem. I was able to hang out at camp without getting any bites but they seemed worse on the way out as I got to the eastern end of Big Whitney Meadow.

Johnson Lake was very pretty and the view from the peak was nice. Rocky Basin Lakes and Funston Lakes are nice too but I have been to them before and 26 miles was enough for me this trip.

I really enjoyed the trek.

About 26 miles with 5500' total gain. Lots of ups and downs.

Photos and my map:
https://www.kathywing.com/CaliforniaHik ... 0---053125

[tekisui0]

Thanks for posting!

[wsp_scott]

That looks like a great early season trip. That part of the map always looks intriguing so I appreciate the photos.

[Love the Sierra]

Great trip! Thanks for posting!