PLEASE READ THE ENTIRE DESCRIPTION, TWICE IS BETTER.
Fall colors above Bishop and a chance to visit the Ancient Bristlecone Pines Forest (September 30-October 1). 1 day along Bishop Creek, 1 day visiting the bristlecones. All locations can be driven to and then short hikes to the action. The Methuselah tree is the oldest, documented and confirmed, non-clonal tree (4855 years young). Its exact location is kept secret, but there are many other picturesque specimens. For those who have the time, I will stop on the way back (Monday) at the Alabama Hills. Natural arches, one natural bridge and an archaic Indian petroglyph site that even the BLM (the manager of AH) doesn't know exists.
I will be camping, but there are motels in Bishop (or Lee Vinning for the Yosemite hikes). Meetup location for Medlicott Dome will be the Tioga Pass Entrance Station (fee or pass needed or carpool in my escape pod) and for Conness Lakes, the turnoff to Junction Campground (just past Ellery Lake and 2.2 miles before Entrance Station). It's signed Saddlebag Lake Road.
Optional hikes in Tuolumne September 28-29 1) sneak route up Medlicott Dome. Recommended for those in good physical shape. This is not a maintained trail and there is one short section that has exposure. If needed I can provide a hand line. It is steep and eroded, but you can dirt ski on the way back down. Bring hiking poles or staff. Pace will be slow to allow for photography. 1.9 miles each way, 1220' elevation gain. Incredible views lead to the No Name Lake. 2) Conness lakes, maintained trail, 3 miles each way, 1,000' elevation gain. Beautiful waterfall topped by several lakes fed by a glacier. Suitable for those in moderate shape. If joining for these hikes, be aware they are at altitude, remember to hydrate, moderate your alcohol intake, drink electrolytes. One nights sleep at altitude is recommended beforehand.
Bring H2O (I have purifier for backup), hiking boots or approach shoes, lunch, camera, sun protection, hiking poles or staff, rain gear.
NOTE: WEATHER CONDITIONS AS WELL AS FOREST FIRES CAN CAUSE A CHANGE IN PLANS. MESSAGE ME WITH QUESTIONS/CONCERNS.
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