Milissa (aka Mary Poppins) asked me to tag along on one of her adventures, The Wonderland Trail, during her 3 month potpourri hiking extravaganza. This trail was not on the top of my list due to difficult to obtain permits, lots of deep forest hiking, and required camps along the way. Boy was I pleasantly surprised over and over again during our few days together.
The Wonderland Trail is about 95 miles long and encircles Mount Rainier. It is a strenuous hike with LOTS of elevation gain and loss EVERY DAY! It passes through lowland forests and valleys and into high alpine and sub-alpine areas. Wonderland’s high Point is Panhandle Gap, elevation 6,780' and low point at Isput Creek Campground elevation 2,300’. The trail is mostly maintained with easy route finding and lots of signage along the way. Days are determined by the campsite permits that a hiker can obtain, so there was quite an uneven range in daily mileage. This is an extremely popular hike most book through a lottery system months in advance. It is the trip of a lifetime for many!
The Uinta Highline Trail, a stunning and iconic hiking route located in the Uinta Mountains of Utah, offers adventurers a breathtaking experience as they traverse diverse landscapes, including alpine lakes, meadows filled with wildflowers, and rugged mountain terrain. Stretching approximately 105 miles from the western trailhead at the Crystal Lake Campground to the eastern trailhead at the Hayden Pass, this trail is ideal for those seeking a multi-day backpacking adventure while immersing themselves in the beauty of nature.
Hikers often encounter a variety of wildlife, including moose, elk, and various bird species. The trail is well-marked and features several campsites, making it accessible for both seasoned hikers and those new to multi-day backcountry trips. Additionally, the elevation gain along the trail offers a moderate challenge, rewarding hikers with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, especially from the higher vantage points, which are particularly awesome at sunrise and sunset.
This trail has been on my adventure list for a few years and I was eager to finally experience it. I am trading my Sierra Mountains for the High Uinta Mountains in northeastern Utah. Gotta say, I am approaching this route with more than a bit of caution and respect, fully aware that every adventure carries its own set of challenges. I have been warned about thunderstorms that can roll in at a moment's notice, freak snowstorms that can transform the landscape into a winter wonderland unexpectedly, and rocky trails that test even the most seasoned hikers. Timing the high passes is critical, as weather conditions can change rapidly, and the possibility of wildlife encounters adds another layer of unpredictability.
Preparation is essential, as the logistics can be challenging, the elevation stays relatively high and weather conditions can change rapidly. The list goes on and on, filling my mind with both apprehension and anticipation. Yet, I am ready to be slapped down and face the suck, because, in the heart of it all, you never know—it just might be an amazing, fantastic surprise waiting for me. Bring it on!
A traverse of the high Sierra over the Inconsolable Range starting from Bishop Pass Trailhead and ending at Big Pine Creek Trailhead is a challenging route for experienced backpackers.
On this trip, I aimed to climb Mount Goode (13,085’), Mount Agassiz (13,893’), Cloudripper (13,525’), and Vagabond Peak (13,374’). The route traverses from Bishop Pass. It goes over the Inconsolable Range via Jigsaw Pass (12,756’). Then, it descends into the Big Pine North Fork Creek Lakes Basin. Three of the peaks, Goode, Agassiz, and Cloudripper are on the Sierra Sampler List. I have been working on climbing the peaks on this list.
The Inconsolable Range lies north of the Palisade Range. It's definitely a big and imposing sight. I read some trip reports. I realized the toughest part of this route would be finding Jigsaw Pass and safely crossing it.
I had a strong climbing partner and the promise of fall colors. The forecast showed clear skies and mild temperatures for a later season trip. With two hearts that love climbing high, we had all the ingredients for a great backpacking trip.
Red Slate Mountain climb, with its distinctive red granite summit, is a rewarding climb located near the McGee Creek Trailhead. This moderate hike offers stunning views and a mix of beauty and challenge, making it a great addition to your adventure in the Sierra Nevada.
Red Slate Mountain is on the Sierra Sampler List, which features 100 peaks that are relatively easy to access, enjoyable to climb, and/or possess other appealing qualities, originating from the main areas of the Sierra range. I have been working on climbing the peaks on this list. Also, it is one of 35 Sierra Club Mountaineers Peaks.
After a swift departure from the John Muir Trail due to an impending snowstorm, we made our way to Looney Beanies in Bishop. Dan, Milissa, and I eagerly consumed coffee, delightfully satisfying Beet Egg Bowls, and an assortment of other treats. In search of a backup plan for our JMT adventure, we opted to ascend Red Slate Mountain. Climbing Red Slate Mountain late season on a very high snow year ended up the perfect choice.
A solo three-day hiking trip in the Southern Sierra included climbing Monache and Templeton Mountains, experiencing solitude, and enjoying lush meadows, springs, and scenic views.
The Golden Trout Wilderness offers scenic backpacking with remote trails and peaks. A detailed five-day adventure included unique landscapes, climbing multiple peaks, and immersive experiences
Hello Adventures,
This small volcanic dome was the setting for my annual birthday peak climb. 🎉 The hike was shared with friends and family, celebrating nature, laughter, and getting outside.
Earthquake Dome, near Mammoth Lakes, offers a moderate 4.44-mile hike with 1212 feet elevation gain and stunning views from Mammoth Mountain to Mount Dana.
It is prime time to be planning for next summer's hikes and backpacking trips in the Sierra. If you are hiking, plan on hiking or just dreaming about hiking the John Muir Trail this guide is for you. Especially, if you would like to hike the trail in a personal and unique way, northbound.
The John Muir Trail is traditionally hiked southbound and stretches 222 miles from Yosemite Valley to Whitney Portal. It passes through 3 national parks, climbs over 9 major passes, rises up to the highest peak in the lower 48, and leads the hiker up and down extreme changes in elevation. It has what backpackers say is the finest mountain scenery. Out of all of the trails and routes I have hiked, the JMT is like a good friend and always beckons me back.
Hello Adventures,
Back again but this time on top of Mount Tom. This backpack had a rough access road and a strenuous route, but we enjoyed the beauty and camaraderie during our rewarding summit experience. I am sorry for the Test Posts this week. I am still working out a few kinks on the blog. Hopefully no one is viewing a Blue Box in this email in place of the photo. Thank you for following along.
The Great Western Divide, a remote sub-range of the Sierra Nevada, offers an exciting hiking experience. A planned route involved climbing Mount Brewer and South Guard Peak over four strenuous days, covering approximately 45 miles with significant elevation gain. The journey included beautiful landscapes, challenging navigation, and moments of solitude.
This is one of my favorite times of the year. Backpacking trip planning time.
Planning and preparing for short or long backpacking trips can be intimidating and overwhelming. I have used the same trip planning system for a few years. It is simple, uses Google Drive, and works.
Using Google Drive is the perfect way to keep things organized for current trips and for trips scheduled for the future.
Joshua Tree National Park is located in the Mojave and Colorado Deserts of Southern California and is a perfect destination when it is cooler in the fall, winter or spring. Step off the main highway that is loaded with people and cars and remote desert wilderness is yours. However, it is primarily waterless.
Joshua Tree National Park’s California Riding and Hiking Trail (CRHT) is an end to end 37.5 mile hike. The CHRT is remote, gentle, largely no crowds, no natural water sources, with breathtaking views, sunrises, and sunsets.
I added a bonus to this mini thru-hike by turning around and repeating the trail in the opposite direction out and back, for a nice 75 mile hike. This is called a YoYo.
AZT Day 29 - Mary Poppins Strikes and a Very Lazy Town Day
We did not wake up refreshed nor very happy BUT the day made a major turn when our hiker friend, Mary Poppins (trail name) picked us up to eat breakfast at the “Toasted Owl” (highly recommend) and to do errands. Instant happy campers. We are hoping to see Mary Poppins again at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.
After breakfast, chores, and all the Interneting, we heading out to hike a few miles to reconnect with the main AZT trail feeling recharged and ready for the final leg of our journey.
AZT Day 24 - Beautiful Country on the Arizona Trail
Today I felt like I was walking so slow. It might have been the 6 days of food I was carrying or that I have had a nagging nerve pain that starts in one butt cheek and runs down my leg. I literally am a pain in the butt.
The landscape today was so cool and unique with views of the Mogollon Rim and miles and miles of green forest and plentiful running water.
I am pretty beat tonight and hoping that tomorrow will be better. Lots of stretching tonight.