Conditions: as expected, most south-facing areas are devoid of snow; however, significant snow still clings to the north-facing cliffs, especially above 9,000' or so. The trail was mostly clear of snow until near Half Moon Meadow.
Once above the meadow, the Ten Lakes Pass area had essentially 100% snow coverage.
All but the lowest of the lakes was still frozen over. Photosynth
We had passed several people who had turned back short of the lakes due to snow; in fact, the lower part of the trail into the Ten Lakes Basin looked dry. Since we were not bound for the lakes, we dropped towards Colby Mountain, where we encountered deep snow--fortunately, firm enough to make postholing a rarity. The climb up Colby was free of snow.
From the broad top of Colby Mountain we got peeks into the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne and could see most peaks in northern Yosemite. Photosynth
The next drop and climb followed a familiar pattern: significant snow on the north-facing slopes, little facing the south.
While Colby offered views to the east, we continued onwards, where we encountered a seasoned, solo hiker who had been wandering around all day.
From his perch, we could see towards Pate Valley, Rancheria Mountain, Nance Peak, and other highlights of northwestern Yosemite. A glimpse at the "tail" of Hetch Hetchy revealed a low water line. Photosynth
We followed the solo wanderer though some delightful country, testing our balance and the friction of our hiking shoes....
...and other apparel.
Towards the end, more classic Yosemite: fresh snow-melt water cascading over glacier-polished rocks.
In many places the granite was flat and smooth, but little was very level, so finding a suitable camping spot was a challenge.
Photosynth 1 Photosynth 2 Photosynth 3
Fortunately we found a decent spot, and after struggling with the wind a bit, camp was set up, and we finished dinner just as the sun sat.
The next day, along with the soloist, we retraced our steps more or less back to the trailhead.
Across the way, we saw a few bare patches in the snow that resembled two birds--at least after a stiff climb:
Soon we were once again looking down into the Tuolumne...
...and trying to identify far-away peaks, many visited not too long ago.
From one place we got a peek at Kolana Rock, the top of Tueeulala Falls, and signs of the recent Rim Fire.
We retraced our footsteps up steep snow back to Ten Lakes Pass...
...where we enjoyed our last views of the high country before dropping back towards Half Moon Meadow and Yosemite Creek.
Some of us opted for a short round of "bonus coverage", exploring the granite between the trail and the creek.
Yep, more classic Yosemite: granite and water.
Another great weekend with good friends sharing what we all love to do.
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