Dates: May 5 - May 9
Don’t let the hot weather fool you, at high elevations there is still a snowpack that is often more than 20 feet deep!
The beginning of the world famous High Route. We camp underneath Tyndal 14,018 with close access to Williamson 14,375, Junction Peak 13,888. This trip is for the fit. Options include: 6,000 ft. descents or the ultimate in backcountry skating!
This trip is the most strenuous mountaineering adventure the SGA currently offers. We will pace ourselves carefully and we expect to have different groups moving at different speeds. Approach this trip as a major athletic event, prepare accordingly. Please show up well rested, hyper-hydrated, well fed, gear ready, eager to learn and ready to have fun!
Friday April 30, we will meet in the small town of Independence (between Bishop and Lone Pine on Hwy. 395) at the vacant lot across the street from the Post Office at 10:00am. We can leave cars here, and do a final gear check, before heading up to the trail head. Allow 7.5 hours driving time from the Bay Area. 5 hours from L.A.
The climb up to Shepard Pass is over 6000 feet. So we will do it in two stages. Friday afternoon(when the temperatures are more pleasant) we will hike about three hours to Anvil Camp, right at timberline, we should be able to camp on dry ground.
Saturday morning, leisurely start then on up to the snowline and skiing up to Shepard Pass where we will build some snow shelters for the Base Camp at 12, 500 feet. Evening skiing/boarding and a good nights sleep.
Sunday, Explore, snowboard/ski many possible objectives.
Monday, Big Day, potential objectives climb and descend Tyndall or Junction Peaks, (both over 14,000ft.) tour and descend Diamond Mesa, tour into Williamson Basin, etc.
Tuesday, Big Descent Home. Last year we enjoyed a 5000 ft. run.
I advise a realistic schedule for driving home, last year we made it to Bishop (1hour North) before collapsing in euphoric exhaustion. Try to go back to work no sooner than Wednesday afternoon if you can.
Cost: $520 Includes food and group equipment