SN, I sure hope the map link works. I've tried it on several browsers, and it does here.
I, too, am troubled with the 4k climb out of MK. On top of that, we'll be getting to MK Saturday night, but can't pick up the permit until ranger station opens at 8. So that makes for a late start. In a perfect situation, I could get an early start, and the 4k could be done in the day, and getting down the other side wouldn't be a problem. I did Glacier Pass AND Black Rock Pass in a day, but that was years ago.
I am thinking about getting to the hot springs on the third day. I have an extra day built into the plans anyway.
My other adventurous part is to climb xc just south of Whitney Creek and head directly up to Crabtree Meadow. That will cut out 10 miles of trail for 2.5 of off-trail (and only a mile of tough terrain with 1500' vertical). I'm hoping I am up for it when I get to it.
Final leg, I plan on heading to Crabtree lakes, and climbing the "dreaded sand hill" route to Discovery Pinnacle. ...that is if all else works out. Fingers are crossed.
