Hi all,
Just got back from my trip down the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne.
The water levels were down from the conditions described by the rangers at the trailhead. I think that the rain had made the levels higher on the days immediately prior to my trip. Thankfully, the route was passable all the way through. Also had the benefit of up to date conditions from a couple of groups going to Glen Aulin from White Wolf (Thanks to all of you!)
Some specifics (note I am 5'3''):
- Dingley was just over my knees.
- Register was definitely a scary crossing in my opinion. Wading: it was over waist deep. Crossing at the cascade (gulp): it was about shin deep.
- No notable flooded trail areas between Register and Pate Valley, just wet shoes but felt safe.
- Morrison was about knee high.
Other information of the trip:
- Rattlesnakes - saw plenty climbing over Muir Gorge and plenty climbing out of Pate Valley.
- Bears - three sightings on the hike out of Pate Valley, including Mama Bear and Cub. (whew)
- Mosquitoes - everywhere but not as bad as I imagined. Pre-treated clothes and DEET took care of it. (Worst I have experienced is Yellowstone in mid-July).
- Snow - still patchy snow on the hike out at higher elevations. Just made the last day a little more effort to get up and down the snow patches.
- Wet shoes - flooded trails and river crossings meant wet shoes for most of the trip.
All in all it was an AMAZING hike. I am glad to have seen it during Spring conditions.
I already miss the raging sound of the Tuolumne River and the incredible vistas.
Thanks again for all the help I got organizing this trip from all of you in this forum.
elicali