Re: Thousand Island Lake - Rush Creek Trail or Agnew Trail?

I've been thinking about a trip to Thousand Island Lake and would like some input:

1.Which month is the best time to go for good photos, good weather, and mostly snow-free trails?
2. How crowded is this destination during the "peak" months?
3. Which approach is recommended, via the Agnew Meadows Trail or Rush Creek Trail? (I've been to Ediza from Agnew Meadows but haven't gone far on the Rush Creek trail, only to Agnew Lake)
4. How difficult is it to carry a camera and tripod while backpacking?

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
H

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quicksilver
I've been thinking about a trip to Thousand Island Lake and would like some input:

1.Which month is the best time to go for good photos, good weather, and mostly snow-free trails?

It really depends on the year. The time I did it was over the 4th of July. There was no snow to deal, weather was great, and the creeks were nice.

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4. How difficult is it to carry a camera and tripod while backpacking?

My view camera and tripod are a complete PITA to carry. YMMV.

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eeek

It really depends on the year. The time I did it was over the 4th of July. There was no snow to deal, weather was great, and the creeks were nice.

Thanks. Which trail did you take?

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quicksilver
Thanks. Which trail did you take?

Ah, forgot that. It was Agnew via Shadow Lake.

...more
http://www.davidsenesac.com/images/print_05-q4-2.html

Mid July through mid August.
Very crowded beside trails and lake shores but one can easily find areas lacking others with a bit of looking and terrain wisdom.
Trivial to carry a compact digital and practically impossible to carry an 8x10.

Into the Ritter Range...
http://www.davidsenesac.com/Iceberg_Lake/iceberg_8-11-06.html

David Senesac
http://www.davidsenesac.com

Thanks for the links. You have some awesome photos and good advice on your site. I wouldn't be doing anything near your level of photography - my equipment would consist of a digital SLR, wide angle, tripod and macro. However, the weight might be too much for a small person like me.

A Labor Day weekend trip might not be possible or as enjoyable due to the crowds. Can anyone recommend other destinations that may be less crowded but just as scenic?

I did the hike via Shadow Lake/JMT as well and thought it was pretty easy. If you leave early enough you can even day hike it from Agnew Meadow. I'd go in mid-July when the wildflowers are going crazy (but keep an eye on a late winter, tends to push back the blooms a few weeks sometimes).