High Sierra Topix

Hi trying to decide whether I'm up to going with a group of teenagers and younger adults on 8-day backpack from Agnew Meadow to Mono Pass June 19-27. The group is planning to climb 3 peaks along the route which I may or may not do. .I am 61 and in fairly good shape but I am slowing down. Did Agnew to Tuolumne Meadows in 6 days three years ago and that was tough. I would appreciate advice on the Agnew to Mono pass route and camp spots as well as general advice about the route, conditions and anything else I should know.

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Last year, 2018, after a slightly below average winter snowpack, the road opened June 15. So June 19 unless one walks from the Mammoth Lodge a few miles through snow....

Likely lots of snow and difficult conditions this year. Not sure if even the young and strong are going to have an easy trip. I came in from Tioga Road and although conditions were not bad over at the start (to Alger Lakes), the snow under melt-conditions became pretty miserable. There were some steep snow sections.

Thank you "rightstar76, SSSdave and Wondering Daisy for the responses....very helpful. Your expertise and caution and pointers are appreciated!

Hi Tonydavid,

There are two Mono Passes in the Sierra. Which Mono Pass are you exiting - the one north of Agnew, or the one south of Agnew? [Based on your Agnew start, I'm guessing you're hiking to the northernmost Mono Pass. But wanted to check.]

North.