by Grzldvt » Thu Jul 30, 2015 11:48 pm
Keep in mind the roads close for overnight parking October 15th, if you plan on starting and finishing in the park. While October's weather can be spectacular, and I have never had any issues in the 25 years I have been doing October trips, others have had less than pleasant experiences. You need to be prepared for potential snow storms and rain.
Since this is the first time in the park, I always recommend the High Sierra Loop with an extra day or two as layovers for day hikes. Park in the T-Meadows Wilderness permit lot
Day One Glen Aulin - With the River down, a nice hike, if we get storms in September and October a great hike. Good for acclimation
May Lake - Steady uphill climb from Glen Aulin - Spend two days and spend one day hiking to the top of Hoffman
Sunrise - Hefty climb from May Lake - Enjoy the area, has some nice areas for photos.
Sunrise to Merced - Day Hike around the lake and out to Washburn, if you have time. Some nice scenery along the hike.
Merced to Voglesang - Spend two days at Vogelsang... It will be self explanatory when you get there. For Day Hikes Vogelsang Peak and back tracking out to the spectacular views to just absorb what you hiked past, or just hang around Vogelsang and cross country to anything that spins your beanie. I prefer the Lyell route out as I think for the most part it is more scenic, but others have their preferences.
Steve