ottoway lake loop

[hikerlinda]

I am wondering how the creek crossings will be on the way to Ottoway Lakes. We should be leaving from Glacier Point towards Ililouete Creek on towards Reds Peak Pass. Wish I had my map with me so I could remember the correct creek names, maybe Clark Fork is another creek we were worried about. The trip is in one more week, July 18. Any advise?

[balzaccom]

From Glacier Point there should be a bridge across illilouette Creek (it's been quite a while since I did that trail) but from Mono Meadows it's still an easy crossing. You might have to wade the cobblestones instead of keep dry on the stepping stones, but it shouldn't stop you from going further.

The other creeks up this drainage should not be an issue. Nothing that's going to be more than about 15 inches deep....

[bill-e-g]

If you are really worried about crossing the Illiouette then
don't go to the Mono Meadow Trail to cross.
Take the Panorama Trail and then take the high trail just W of Starr King.
This would avoid 2 crossings... the drainage from Mono Meadow area...
and Ill Creek. There is a very large log across the Ill. when you
have to cross it when you get to the Mono mdw trl jct.
The Illiouette will probably be flowing very very nicely...

The Clark fork and Red Creek shouldn't give you tooooo much issue.

Are you actually planning to cross Red Peak Pass?
I doubt you will want to do that yet this year.

In any case... don't worry... just go. worse case you get to some
crossing and aren't comfortable... so what... turn around and head back.
Come or go via that high trail next to Starr King and you won't
be disappointed IMO.

Have fun

[bill-e-g]

btw... there is one other crossing that will be fun before Ottoway.
Pretty close to the lower lake... you'll have to find some logs to cross
or get your feet wet.

Enjoy

[KC]

Bill-e-g is right. Just go, it's an awesome trip.

Frankly, I'd be more concerned about conditions over Red Peak Pass than anything else. You'll know what those are like as soon as you get to Glacier Point though. You can adjust your trip accordingly then.