We started at the Sunrise Trailhead and left the trail at the first indication it was going up and away from Tenaya Creek, over a low rocky ridge. The cross-country travel from here was straightforward until the creek enters a narrow slot. Near here, on the opposite (west) shore is a sign warning of dangers ahead. This is informally known as "Admonition Point". (Yes, we did return to Tioga Road--eventually.)
Some trip descriptions suggest crossing the creek, but I can see no reason for this other than being able to read the admonition: the west side of the creek does get tight, but the left is passable, and just below the sign is the highlight of the trip: a cascade dropping into a large, open granite bowl, with the creek gracefully curving around before its final plunge into generically-named "Glacial Valley". (There is a less-steep gulley just east of the creek here that could also be used to enter "Glacial Valley".)
Below this granite bowl--a worthy destination on its own--travel is generally good, except for a messy section near the creek from Sunrise Mountain. Past this creek, the terrain changes from open forest and granite slabs to brush and talus. A final climb up a granite slope leads to the infamous Lone Boulder, with excellent views into Tenaya Canyon. (This is also the end of the "easy" part of the route down Tenaya Canyon and would be a more appropriate location for the "admonition" sign...)
Conditions: There was basically no snow along Tenaya Creek or going around Pothole Dome. There were a few mosquitoes out at the Sunrise trailhead. There were no sightings of pink birds. Strange, this seems to be their preferred habitat.
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