Day 74
We officially entered the Yosemite "Meat Grinder" as we were warned by hikers ahead. We heard and read stories where creek and river crossings were impassable because they have become rapids, or having to swim across because they are so deep, or hiking several miles upstream to find a safer passage. Some hikers have made poor judgements or overestimated their abilities resulting in injury.
Back to water crossings at McCabe Creek
Since entering the Sierra, the snow has created a wet trail in which we would have wet socks and wet shoes all day. Crossings freezing creeks and rivers meant the only way to warm up our feet, and returning circulation in them, was to keep walking. Walking up early in the morning before sunrise and putting on wet socks and shoes is not the most comfortable. We just learned to accept that it was part of our daily routine.
Another water crossing right after at Return Creek,
this time we did two-person i-formation crossings
This section of Northern Yosemite is certainly beautiful and
we're glad we haven't hit snow yet.
Crossing Matterhorn Creek
Our campsite last was great! The mosquitoes were not a problem as soon as we were in our tents. We did wake up with quite a bit of condensation as we were in a meadows, even tho we were towards the edge and a bit elevated. Our morning started with two water crossings but not terrible. We did have to partner up on Return Creek as it was moving a bit faster. But it was no issue for us.
It was nice to start the day hiking on trails, no snow. And with the sunny weather, our shoes are able to dry a bit in between water crossings. After Matterhorn Creek, we decided to take a lunch break as it also offered us the opportunity to dry out our gear.
Our gear were damp from last night and at lunch,
it was a good opportunity to lay everything out to dry
Snow was once again upon us as we started to gain elevation going up Benson Pass. But unlike previous passes in the High Sierra, now the passes are a bid more tamed and does not require careful planning, like having to camp right before the pass.
Back in snow going up Benson Pass
At Benson Pass, we celebrated a bit by having people dance under our trekking poles as we cheer. So fun!
At Benson Pass
Taking in the view with Volunteer Peak in the background before we descend
Taking a little break
Rest break at Smedberg Lake
Today was definitely was a relaxed pace of hiking, just enjoying and taking in the scenery. We've taken multiple short and long breaks, even got to lay in the sun at Smedberg Lake. Not long after, we set camp early in the day.