Hi All – My group and I returned about 2 weeks ago from a great trip in Hetch Hetchy. Just about all of the advice on this forum was correct and my pals and I certainly got what we were looking for: solitude and challenge! Here’s a synopsis of our trip, with some links to photos and videos at the end: Day 1: 40deg. Full packs. We hiked up the switchbacks to Beehive and felt prby mpuchtel - Yosemite and the Sierra Nevada. News & Discussion
Ok, thanks. I'll likely scrap the idea.by mpuchtel - Yosemite and the Sierra Nevada. News & Discussion
Is there cell phone reception in the Hetch Hetchy backcountry? Before anyone squirms at that question let me make clear that I have no intention of being "plugged-in" while backpacking. Rather, my intent is to have a smartphone with a map application as an emergency backup to my map and compass. Also, I may need to receive a message about some family medical news. Thanks forby mpuchtel - Yosemite and the Sierra Nevada. News & Discussion
Thanks for the pics. Yes, our plans are solidifying and we plan to hike in on the 8th. We aren't too concerned with the trail, and rather plan to do a good amount of spontaneous meandering. I think I will invest in a pair of snowshoes even if I'd only need them a fraction of the time on this trip.by mpuchtel - Yosemite and the Sierra Nevada. News & Discussion
Hi Bill-e-g, Do you have more photos of the snowpack from years past during April/May? I'm trying to make snowshoe decisions. Thanks!by mpuchtel - Yosemite and the Sierra Nevada. News & Discussion
From the yosemite website it seems like the "Happy Isle up the Merced to Washburn" idea isn't accessible (due to the road closures to the trailhead) by early May. That's the main reason I've been planning for Hetch Hetchy: its access at that time and the solitude. I plan to be hiking in on the 8th so maybe we'll see each other. Like you said, there does seem to be large range of cby mpuchtel - Yosemite and the Sierra Nevada. News & Discussion
Hi All - The advice so far has been great. However, if I determine later in the season that the conditions in Hetch Hetchy are indeed too unfavorable for my planned trip, what other options would you recommend for that time of year? Either in Yosemite or in the Seirra Nevada? Thanks, Maxby mpuchtel - Yosemite and the Sierra Nevada. News & Discussion
Bill-e, where exactly is the paradise valley you are describing? I don't see it on my NG map.by mpuchtel - Yosemite and the Sierra Nevada. News & Discussion
I just submitted by wilderness permit today! By the way, what time of year were the two above photos taken? It looks gorgeous!by mpuchtel - Yosemite and the Sierra Nevada. News & Discussion
Thanks for all of the info. Your photos help a lot, and reinforce the message that I need to be flexible. Some of my group is interested in fishing. I've read on these forums that both lake Laurel & Vernon can be decent for trout. Do you have any experience fishing on this route?by mpuchtel - Yosemite and the Sierra Nevada. News & Discussion
Hi All - I'm looking to get some advice on a trip: I plan to do 6 days, 5 nights, in a loop from Hetch Hetchy to Jack Main Canyon area and back during the second week in May 2011. I've spoken to a ranger and understand that snow will be something to expect. My group (4-8 people) are all Minnesotans and we enjoy the cold! We also have no problem with snowshoes and snow camping. However, dby mpuchtel - Yosemite and the Sierra Nevada. News & Discussion