Hi Folks,
I've got a wilderness permit for Happy Isles to Sunrise starting on Friday, June 5th and plan to exit some time on Monday, June 8th, so 4 days and 3 nights total. I'm thinking of doing a loop up to Sunrise using Echo Creek trail and Cloud's Rest trail in some order (avoiding the JMT because I've heard its busy and the views are better on the other two trails).
This is the first time I'm backpacking in Yosemite (only done day hikes in TM), so would appreciate any and all advice. In particular, though, I'm wondering about the following things:
1. Difficulty - How strenuous is this itinerary for 4-day/3-night itinerary? My wife and I are in good shape, although its been a couple of years since I've worn a 30 lb. pack.
2. Start/Finish - Is is better to start out toward Cloud's Rest and then come back down on Echo trail, or vice versa?
3. Camping locations - Looking at the distances, I'm not sure if we'd want to stop at the official Sunrise camp--any suggestions on good alternative stops for each of the 3 nights? Also, looking for a good stopping point on the first night since my permit is a pass through and can't stay at LYV.
I know that's a lot of questions but I've been reading the other posts on this forum and sounds like some folks really know their way around Yosemite. Look forward to the trip, and benefiting your advice!
Thanks.