Anyone hike Vernon Lake Loop-Hetch Hetchy?

[Snydman]

I have a reservation next week to do the loop at Hetch Hetchy. Has anyone like this yet this season? Looking to get some insight on conditions, stream crossings and snow pack ?

Thanks !

[AlmostThere]

Worry about stream crossings on the higher part of the loop. Worry about mosquitoes. Snow if present will be consolidated and thin, crunchy in the morning, soft in the afternoon. Nights are trending to cold over the next couple of weeks - stormy weather coming through this week, some chance of snow showers and low night temps in the 20s in the higher elevations. Likely to be ice in trails in the morning. I will be taking microspikes, trekking poles, an extra layer and a nice warm sleeping setup, when we go out in a couple of weeks.

[mpadilla]

Hi, have a 4 day/3 night wilderness permit for Hetch-Hetchy (mid-June). Planning on doing the rancheria falls, vernon lake, laurel lake loop similar to you. May go clockwise to get the climb out of the way early. If I decide to go counter-clockwise, does the permit limit me on which direction I can go?
Thanks.
MP

[balzaccom]

Since you're hiking a loop, you can do it either direction.

I like going to Rancheria Falls first because that long steep climb out of HH with full packs isn't fun.

[mpadilla]

Sounds good, I can get rid of one day's worth of food and since I'm carrying the bear vault with food for 3 hikers that's a big deal.
MP