dnymore wrote:This June I will stay at the Tamarack Flat campground. I would like to hike from Tamarack to Upper Yosemite Falls and down into the Valley.Looking at the Yosemite map, it looks about 8-9 miles one way. Is there such a trail???
I've backpacked sections of that route on different occasions, but the latest trip was about a zillion years ago, so my memories might be a bit foggy, but here's my two cents anyway.
It seemed to me that the trail from the campground to Cascade Creek was very easy; a steady downward jaunt on an old road.
From Cascade Creek to the ridge above Ribbon Meadow was a tiring waterless haul nearly constantly uphill. I would expect water to be available at Ribbon Meadow, although late season, you might have to get lucky to find a puddle or two there. Overall, it
felt more like ten miles to get to El Capitan from Tamarack Flat.
About 1/2 mile past El Capitan, there was was a small spring flowing year-round alongside the trail, otherwise, water might not be found again until you reach Yosemite Creek.
From El Capitan to Eagle Peak there is no significant elevation change, but I suspect that you will lose, then reclimb several hundred feet along the way. The side trip to Eagle Peak is no cake-walk, but if time allows, it is well worth the effort. By all means try it if you can manage the time.
As sore and tired as you think you are, the constant steep downhill from the top of Yosemite Falls to the valley will redefine sore knees for all but the hardiest people.
All together, I would consider this an ambitiuos and strenuous day hike. If I was to attempt it, I would make sure of the following:
1. All hikers must be in pretty good to excellent physical condition.
2. Bring plenty of water. Bring purifiction tablets.
3. Pack about 1000 to 1500 calories of lightweight food.
4. Leave early. Keep moving. There is a lot to see (El Capitan, Eagle Peak and Yosemite Falls) combined with many miles and significant elevation gains.
5. At least one person brings a camera. I guarantee postcard quality snapshots from the lightest cheapest diisposable camera.
I'll leave it up to you to work out the logistics of getting back to Tamarack Flat. But I will promise that you will find your sleeping bag that night to be beckoning you early, and you will arise the next day with a deeper understanding of the of the enriching qualities of some of the best views that our planet has to offer.