Thanks for the great suggestions.
Hopefully I can manage three trips to the Sierra's next summer, so am thinking about three different agendas. Of course weather will influence the timing of the trips:
I. I'm thinking about a taking a week/ten days to hike 4 peaks:
Mt. Dana - en-route from Bay Area to east side of Sierra's
Spend night at Mammoth
Hike White Mountain - Good warm up for more strenuous hikes, but still at high altitude
Spend night at Horseshoe Meadows
Perhaps a day off?
Hike Mt. Langley via Old Army Pass
One or two days off?
Hike Mt. Russell
This only takes 6/7 days and 5/7 nights, but I may find more "day offs" necessary, so will plan on the 7/10 days.
II. Perhaps a couple of more technical climbs. These will depend on how much outside climbing experience I can gain between now and then. Last week I was in contact with Sierra Mountaineering International about doing the East Buttress (this weekend actually), but just did not have enough time to get organized, and honestly speaking the prospect of spending two nights at Iceberg Lake is not so appealing to me. I just prefer hot and cold running water, and a bed to sleep on. So, I'm considering which more technical routes might be suited for me, and that do not require nights spent on the trail. I think a climb like the East Buttress is within my skill level, but of course this does not take into account the possibility of an "Oh Shit" moment when confronted with the exposure. So, only time/opportunity will tell. But again, I would hope to be able to string two or more together for a single trip. This would also depend on either friends with lots of experience with "Trad" climbing, or scheduling with Guides.
III. Another seven to ten day trip incorporating 4 or so peaks. Right now I'm thinking about the Palisades/Yosemite area, but need more investigation, and perhaps a copy of R. J. Secor's The High Sierra: Peaks, Passes, and Trails, with a glass or two of wine.
Thanks again
