Sierra Itinerary HELP! ASAP – Cathedral Lakes–>Yosemite Valley??

[Benjamin M]

Hello new friends! My indecision has gotten the better of me.

I will be taking my best friend on his first backcountry camping experience. I have been lucky enough to land two permits, but I can’t decide which would be the ‘more magnificent’ option. My friend and I are physically prepared to do either trip…

While either trip would be magical, what would be more picturesque? I have a hunch that Duck Pass might be a more traditional high-sierra experience, with more dramatic crags and more isolation.

#1 Cathedral Lakes to Clouds Rest to Yosemite Valley, with some XC to Budd Lake / Nelson Lake / Echo Lake (how famous this section of the JMT is makes this a hard decision)

#2 Duck Pass to Ivy Bell Hotsprings to Lost Key Lakes, and then return home

I know, I’m spoiled, but I rarely have time to go out for this long and I want to make the most of it! Thanks!

[USA Duane Hall]

You’ll go WOW! over the view at Clouds Rest and likely want to stay for hours to take in the view, coming from someone who after strenuous hikes, only spends a few minutes on passes or summits before moving on.

Duane

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