JMT mile 156.5
Miles hiked today: 12
Total miles hiked: 164.5
Site Elevation: 10,188’
We got a very early start today (6:35 am) because it was a big climbing day and wanted to start in the shade.
The first order of business was climbing the Golden Staircase on the way to Mather Pass. These are switchbacks cut straight into the mountain. We did really well and were done with them by 8:20 am.
Then continuing on to Mather Pass (12,100’) we passed the beautiful Palisades Lakes.
It was a very tough climb but around 12:40 pm we were on top! The switchbacks again were carved straight into the mountain.
The way down was a little easier until we hit the Upper Basin, however the trail was long and very hot. No shade anywhere and it totally zapped our energy.
After 10 hours on the trail we called it quits and found a campsite by a creek.
Another awesome day in the Sierra mountains.
⁃ Jeff and Ellen
Journeys with Jeff and Ellen 