Mt. Whitney Portal Store & Hostel Forums General Mt. Whitney Portal Store Message Board OT-CottonWood/South Fork Lakes ??

I'm looking to take my son on his first backpacking trip in the Sierra. I've spent a fair bit of time at the Cottonwood Lakes as fishing is a focal point of most of my trips up there, and he likes to fish as well.
My question has to do with the route to South Fork Lakes as I've never been to that side. Anyone with an opinion on whether that would be easier than up to Cottonwoods?
The Cottonwood route is easy enough for me...just worried about making it a fun, enjoyable experience for the boy. I'm not sure how he'll handle the altitude. We could day hike over to Cottonwoods to fish and explore if we wanted.
Any input or suggestions appreciated!

I'm not sure that I would describe the route as easier, as the both start, and end, at about the same respective altitudes.

I *will* say, though, that I think the South Fork trail is much less used, feels more wilderness-y and remote. You will likely have the lakes to yourself, as well as the fish! The only hard part of the trail is the last 1/4 or so mile just before you get to the first lake, it is a steep, switchbacky section. Not really hard, just slower. However, up to that, it is pretty flat, and quite a bit runs next to the stream, with camping opportunities, if you are so inclined.

The trail up to South fork is gradual and enjoyable with good vews and good country. Towards the end you do have to work up an area with out a trail to hit the top of the draw. Look at you map and follow the easiest route. You then will hit the trail across and head quickly to the lake. The stream on the left as you head up is the drainage but it gets difficult with regards to the terrain is you follow too close to it.

It is a lightly used trail and well worth the hike to the lakes.

Enjoy!

Thanks to both of you for the info.
It appears to be a bit shorter than the CL trail by looking at the maps...that's what I meant by easier.
How are the campsites around the lake? Judging by the map, it looks like the SW shore might have some good spots?

The South Fork Trail is a better way to go. It is a constant up until the climb into SFL, there are fewer people and a lot less horse manure. I only use the main trail when I'm head towards Army Pass.

There are campsites around the lake but my favorite is above Lake #1. When you enter the Lake basin do not cross the outlet stream. It just above you on the right.

Thanks for the reply.
Hate to beat this subject up, but are you talking about the trail just past the first stream crossing or the split past the trout camp?
Also, I'm assuming that the campsites you like are above CL #1?

I'm sure we are talking about the split off at the first stream crossing.

My favorite camping area is on the east shore of the highest lake, in the woods.

As soon as you cross over the log, start looking to your left.

Thanks to all you guys for your suggestions. Had a great trip with my 12 year old son the 18th thru 21st. It was the perfect distance and I enjoyed this trail more than the other. Weather could not have been better for this time of year.

Here's a couple pix from the weekend.


View from Camp

[img]http://[/img]
Fishing Lake 3


Ready for a burger and beer