Mt Whitney Zone Forums General Discussion Winter backpacking

So, with the huge storms, I never was able to get to Tahoe or Yosemite when they were accessible and safe to travel to.Looks like Badger Pass road isn't re-opening, so I've been thinking of where I could do a 3-4 day winter backpacking trek.

Hopefully nothing with a huge amount of elevation gain, accessible parking area, some great views, and little chance of avalanches.


Any ideas?

Maybe something off the Generals Highway between Sequoia and Kings Canyon areas. Not sure when the roads will open up, but when they are, you could hike in a ways over snow.

You might try at SNO-Park system:


https://ohv.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=30701

https://ohv.parks.ca.gov/pages/1233/files/2023-SNO-PARK_Brochure-WebVersion.pdf

It provides parking and restrooms at winter trailheads. This year be sure to check ahead to see where they have been able to provide services and what hasn't be cleared. November thru May, $15 per night or $40 per season.

On the east side the farthest south is above Tom's Place off 395 between Bishop and Mammoth. It is at 9000' and provides access to the Rock Creek basin. The Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center reporting area includes Rock Creek and provides daily weather and avalanche reports and predictions.

This year for sure, check ahead to see what is open.

Dale B. Dalrymple