We are planning on starting the High Sierra Trail June 17 and hoping to exit Whitney Portal the 22 or 23. I am still in the planning process and will post more info, but here are some initial questions:
Q1. In your opinion, what is the best time of day to see Precipice Lake?
Afternoon, full sun warming for a swim, late light. Great place to camp. West to sunset view
Q2. Since much of the hike is near water, is it reasonable to think we can get by carrying only 1-2 liters of water for much of the hike? We would each plan to drink a liter when we refill.
Plenty of water all along the way except for very start. No water at Crescent meadow and for a couple of miles so tank up at Giant Forest. One l is usually plenty, but inquire about local conditions before you start. Usual numerous seeps could be dry this year.
Q3. We start June 17th. Would you be concerned regarding mosqu itos?
Yes
Q4. What about snow (If so, would you carry microspikes?)?
Kaweah Gap clears surprisingly late, about the same as much higher passes to the East. Check local conditions on the SEKI website in a week. I am guessing it will be completely clear.
Q5. In general, if there's some moisture predicted, do you prefer merino wool or down for insulation?
Q6.I am working on pulling all of my gear & food together, but it looks like I will be @ 32 lbs with 6 days worth of food (10 lbs, 3500 kCals per day). Water is not included in the weight. Too heavy?
The trail is not that rigorous for most of its length. 32 Lbs would be a dream for me.
Q7. How does the hike from Guitar Lake to Whitney Summit compare to Trail Camp to Whitney summit? I am hoping to be on the summit for sunrise on June 22 and trying to figure out the timing.
Its actually more elevation gain, but does not seem like it because it is more broken up and less monotonous: only about 22 switchers. ALpine start is usual - 2 am or so - for spectacular sunrise over the Inyos. Expect it to be very cold at that hour.
Q8. How much water would you carry from Guitar Lake to Whitney Summit to Trail Camp? I tend to carry too much water and drink more than needed (right Steve?
)
3 liters is the usual recommendation from Guitar to summit, to TC
That's it for now. Thanks for your help!
Lyndon
