There is nothing worse than being woken up in the middle of the night by the cold because the down in my quilt has migrated to the sides.
 |
| My latest "ultimate quilt". Finally no more cold spots. |
Sierra High Route & Mono Divide: 06/26 - 07/02/2013
 |
| Pinecreek Trailhead. |
This trip was originally planned to be an 11 day SHR section hike from Merriam Lake to the Silver Divide and back via the PCT. I had planned a few layover days to enjoy Lower Mills Creek Lake and Bear Lakes Basin. . . but by the time I finished a few last minute gear projects (a new backpack, sleeping quilt and stove) the plan was compressed into an 8 day loop with no 'zero' days.
So with a new more comfortable internal frame backpack and 8 days of food I headed up the switchbacks from the Pine Creek trailhead. The first 2,000 feet to Lower Pine Lake made for a steady but reasonable climb. I enjoyed a nice breeze and long lunch break along the outlet creek.
For the rest of the day the bugs chased me through Granite Park.
So with a new more comfortable internal frame backpack and 8 days of food I headed up the switchbacks from the Pine Creek trailhead. The first 2,000 feet to Lower Pine Lake made for a steady but reasonable climb. I enjoyed a nice breeze and long lunch break along the outlet creek.
For the rest of the day the bugs chased me through Granite Park.