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HIGH SIERRA

2nd PART OF ORION

  • Location: The Sierra Nevada section of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) stretches from Kennedy Meadows South to Echo Lakes. This section is defined by high-altitude environments, with rugged mountain peaks, alpine lakes and forests. Hikers experience a dramatic shift in terrain, moving from the desert landscapes of Southern California into the towering peaks and challenging terrain of the Sierra Nevada.

  • Duration: From June 15th to July 9th, 2024, covering 24 days.

  • Number of Zero Days: One rest day was taken to recover and manage logistical needs.

  • Distance Covered: 680 km (approximately 423 miles).

  • Elevation Gain: 26,285 meters (86,269 feet) of cumulative ascent.

  • Environment and Weather: This section is characterized by high-altitude terrain ranging from 1,800 meters (5,900 feet) at Kennedy Meadows to 4,418 meters (14,505 feet) at the summit of Mt. Whitney. The weather varied with cold nights and mild days at lower elevations but significantly colder conditions at higher altitudes. Snow patches persisted, particularly on the higher passes, making sections challenging. The mosquitoes, while not a major issue for sleeping, were a constant annoyance during the day, particularly in shaded areas and around lakes.

  • National Parks Traversed:

    • Sequoia National Park: Known for its giant sequoia trees, including some of the largest trees on Earth, this park is a gem within the Sierra.

    • Kings Canyon National Park: With dramatic canyons, rugged terrain and abundant wilderness, it offers a pristine wilderness experience.

    • Yosemite National Park: Although not directly on the PCT, the northern section of the Sierra borders Yosemite, renowned for its iconic granite cliffs and waterfalls.

  • Key Resupply Points:

    • Bishop: A popular resupply town near the eastern Sierra, offering a range of amenities for hikers.

    • VVR (Vermilion Valley Resort): A remote, essential resupply point accessible by ferry, often an expensive oasis for tired hikers.

    • Lee Vining: A small town near Mono Basin offering limited supplies for hikers heading into the northern part of the Sierra.

  • Summits Climbed:

    • Mt. Whitney: 4,418 meters (14,505 feet), the highest point on the PCT and the highest peak in the contiguous United States.

  • Passes Crossed: The Sierra section includes several notable mountain passes, each presenting both challenges and spectacular views: Olancha Pass (2,810 meters), Mulkey Pass (3,168 meters), Forrester Pass (4,023 meters)—highest point on the PCT, Kearsarge Pass (3,569 meters), Glen Pass (3,644 meters), Pinchot Pass (3,696 meters), Mather Pass (3,686 meters), Muir Pass (3,649 meters), Selden Pass (3,326 meters), Silver Pass (3,285 meters), Island Pass (3,116 meters), Donohue Pass (3,375 meters), Tioga Pass (3,031 meters), Benson Pass (3,080 meters), Seavey Pass (2,782 meters), Dorothy Lake Pass (2,903 meters), Sonora Pass (2,941 meters) and Carson Pass (2,764 meters).​

  • Difficulties Encountered:

    • Altitude: The high elevation and thinner air were physically demanding, causing breathlessness and fatigue, especially during climbs above 3,000 meters (9,840 feet).

    • Long Stretches Without Resupply: The section included long stretches (up to 7 days) between resupply points, requiring careful planning and carrying significant food and water supplies.

    • River Crossings: Several challenging river crossings, including a detour due to the destroyed bridge at the San Joaquin River.

    • Snow and Ice: Some higher sections were still covered in snow, requiring careful navigation and adding difficulty to the terrain.

    • Mosquitoes: While they were not a major issue at night, mosquitoes were persistent during the day, especially near lakes and in shaded areas.

    • Bear Safety: Food protection was a major concern, with bear canisters, bear boxes and bear hangs required to keep food safe from bears.

    • Pain and Injury: Common issues included blisters, muscle soreness and the fatigue of the intense, constant elevation gain.

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The Sierra section provided some of the most iconic and challenging landscapes of the entire PCT, from the towering Mt. Whitney to the snow-covered passes, alpine lakes and dense forests. The combination of physical challenges, rugged beauty and the immense sense of accomplishment made this section one of the most memorable experiences of the expedition as Northern California awaits.

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