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3 day hike - advice.

PostPosted: Sat Jul 21, 2007 4:12 pm
by Andrew
Hi
This will be my first time to Yosemite. I am from Australia, now living in LA. I am looking at a 3 day/2 night backpack trip by myself. My fitness is moderate. Would you recommend something like a trip from Tuolomne trailhead to Merced Lake (via. Sunrise Lakes), and return. How many miles would this be, and would it be easy to get a permit for it (I am arriving at Yosemite this week). Otherwise, would you recommend another route.
Thanks.

Re: 3 day hike - advice.

PostPosted: Sat Jul 21, 2007 10:36 pm
by dan
If I was headed to Merced Lake via Tuolumne, I would just keep on going down down to Yosemite Valley. When you get there, stay in the "Backpacker's Campground" (ask where it is when you get your Wilderness Permit--it's roughly east of the Ahwahnee Hotel). Take the "Hiker's Shuttle" the next morning to Tuolumne. My only point is you have some fair "up" going back from Merced Lake. Merced Lake is also overrun with little kids in summer, if that matters to you.

Sunrise Lakes is beautiful. Also consider heading to Clouds Rest for a great view west of Yosemite Valley (at least early in the day when the sun isn't shining in your face).