Thanks, Steve, for the trip report. I was on the Mist Trail coming down from HD last September. I too like the steeper trail (both going down and up). The 1b. trail description sounds interesting. Is it easy to find the side trail to the top of Vernal Falls? And I like the sound of the horse/pack trail. I like lesser traveled trails even if I have to go "off trail" sometimes. And I think the Sierra Point hike starts near that bridge. We may hike your "Cathedral Lakes backdoor access" on our way home driving towards Lee Vining.