Day 60
Caitlin sporting the hiker trash look at Kearsarge Pass on our way into the Sierra
It felt good getting back on the trail. Yesterday was tough initially carrying once again a fully loaded and very heavy pack. We camped at Gilbert Lake and it was nice to get acclimated again with the elevation.
Making our way back towards the PCT on Kearsarge Pass Trail
Having a little fun just above the first unnamed lake before Glen Pass
Looking back at our group as we make our way up Glen Pass
We went over Kearsarge Pass quite easily early in the morning and then we headed towards Glenn Pass. The hike towards the pass was straightforward, but as usual with all the snow, the summer trail was hidden beneath. We PCTers tend to make aggressive snow trails and going up Glenn Pass was no exception. Our ice axes became an extension of our bodies, as we held it with Kung Fu grips as we dig it in the packed snow, always aware that a small slip requires quick thinking to prevent falling on the side of a mountain. We continued our vertical ascent on the snow, kicking steps, communicating with each other.
Glen Pass looking quite steep without switchbacks
Decided to stay until some are able to clear the upper portion
just in case someone slips and have to self arrest
Upon reaching the top, we met a Forest Ranger, who then gave us additional pointers on using ice axes as well as crossing rivers. We were all glad to be on top that we even forgot to take any photo. As the ranger skied down the mountain, we gingerly made our way down a pretty steep section. Once we got down to a more manageable angle, we were able to glissade which made the descent much easier.
Such an amazing view looking down Rae Lakes
Gets pretty steep on this section
Glissading down the mountain is our preferred choice of coming down the mountain
We also were able to practice how to self arrest
Hiking doesn't always mean were on our feet.
A great view of frozen Rae Lakes
Upper Rae Lakes
The water crossing between Upper and Middle Rae Lakes, where we were befuddled as to why the ranger took his shirt off before crossing the waist deep water
Taking a little break after the water crossing with the Painted Lady in the background
We passed thru the always beautiful Rae Lakes, and we ended our night camping on the opposite side of Arrowhead Lake. We camped on a beautiful peninsula and the sunset view was amazing, overlooking Fin Dome and Glenn Pass in the far distance.
Beautiful reflection of Fin Dome across Arrowhead Lake
Dinners are the best!
Cowboy camping for the night, but first, lets get that bear canister out of Airplane Mode's pack!
