West-northwest view just after sunrise
Friday, 12 Aug 9.2 miles, 4:50
Timberline Lake to the south ridge of Mt. Whitney
We slept in a bit on purpose this morning as we had only a nine-mile day and no pass to cross. The deer were gone when I arose but the ravens were on patrol as I packed up. We were on the trail just about 8:00. The walk down from Bighorn was scenic, through open woods and meadows with ever-changing views of Mt. Whitney. We were concerned about the cirrus clouds that had developed overnight and were slightly relieved when we met a ranger who said that as of yesterday at 15:30 the forecast was clear through the weekend. Shortly after, we met A&R who had also interrogated the poor ranger. From there we passed the JMT/PCT split and shortly after we arrived at Crabtree Junction. Here we picked up the Wag Bags that are required in the Whitney Zone. I was more excited about this than would probably be considered normal. We had made good time so far but now the heat of the day was setting in and it dragged on me. Still, we weren’t much slower as we got to charming Timberline Lake and, finally, Guitar Lake in a reasonable amount of time. Guitar Lake is visually stunning but, based on the odor, I’m guessing that not everyone employs their wag bag here. We spent the afternoon relaxing, chatting with other hikers, eating, and hydrating. C&R and Chelsea and I are planning a 4:00 start on Whitney tomorrow. The clouds have been steady but not worsening. Hopefully they will thin out overnight. Nevertheless, I am in my tent tonight, not sleeping out as I’d planned.
