Mt. Whitney Portal Store & Hostel Forums General Mt. Whitney Portal Store Message Board Where to go backpacking next week

It looks like the road to Devils Postpile won't be open until the end of next week (6-18-10) but that doesn't do me any good because my trail permit starts out of Agnew Meadow 6-15-10. I had planned to take my two sons for 5 days and head up on a loop around Thousand Island lake. Needless to say I need to find another place to go (that isn't too snowy) since we can't get to the trailhead. Everywhere I call it sounds like I'm a few weeks too early because of the snow but I want to believe it is melting fast and there will be a good place to be. Does anyone have any suggestions (and maybe some current photos)?

I just read a trip report on another board from someone who also had to change plans because of the snow. He ended up going to Carson Iceberg Wilderness.

http://www.highsierratopix.com/community/viewtopic.php?f=1&t=5087

It's not Thousand Island Lake but it's better than cancelling your trip.

Hope this helps.

Larry
Have you ever been up to Little Lakes Valley above Rock Creek Lake? We were there a few weeks ago (5/14-5/17) and it was beautiful. I don't know if the road is open all the way to Mosqiuto Flat t/h yet, but you can park at the upper pack station and hike in, it will add about 1.5 mi to the route.
It's not the 23 miles that you get with the High Trail / River Trail loop, but it is easy access and not alot of elev gain (10k - 10.8k if you stay in the valley). The lakes were still frozen but I would imagine there's been quite a bit of thaw with the current temps.
Here's my Picasa link: Little Lakes Valley Snow Camp
click here for pics
Happy hiking!
Stacy

We are going to hike Telescope Peak next weekend if you want to join. We want to do it before it gets too hot.

Why not use a trailhead out of the June Lake area (via the Gem lake trail)?

The road is clear to Mosquito Flat, and the trail conditions are improving. Expect mud.Info from White Mtn Ranger Stn.