[pct-l] Question on best route to hike in April, May and June

[Bob Bankhead]

Andria is correct, even if we miraculously get a low snow year. Unless you are all experienced mountaineers with the proven field expertise and gear to handle mile upon mile of continuously snow-buried trail, you really have only one logical choice by starting in April: southern California.

Start at Campo ahead of the herd and go north as far as you feel comfortable going. You should be able to at least reach Kennedy Meadows. Decide when you get there if you're going any further, based on snow conditions at the time. If you do go on, you might want to hook up with some of the through-hikers for added protection and support through the Sierras.

Be advised, once you leave Kennedy Meadows, you will face a significant off-PCT walk to reach civilization along highway 395 since the campgrounds and roads will no doubt still be blocked by snow. That translates into no rides and very long roadwalks.

For example, going north:

1) exit at Trail Pass; 3 miles down to Horseshoe Meadow CG plus another 23 miles of roadwalk down to Lone Pine.

2) exit at Kearsarge Pass; 7.5 miles down to Onion Valley plus another 15 mile roadwalk into Independence.

3) exit at Bishop Pass; 11.6 miles to South Lake plus 22.5 mile roadwalk to Bishop

4) exit at Piute Pass; 15.6 miles to North Lake plus 20 mile roadwalk to Bishop

5) exit at Reds Mdw: 8 miles uphill roadwalk to Mammoth Mountain Inn plus 4.2 mile roadwalk into Mammoth Lakes proper. Cabs and shuttles will be available for the last 4.2 miles or someone could meet you at Mammoth Mountain ski resort.

6) exit at Tuolumne Meadows; a possibility if and only if the highway is open. Otherwise, TM will still be closed up and you'd be facing 23 miles on the JMT down to Yosemite Valley, which will be open.