High Sierra Topix

Need some advice. This summer I'm planning a five day trip starting at Mineral King, looping around and ending back at MK. Ive picked nights 2-4 which are Hamilton Lake-Little Five Lakes-Columbine Lake and then back to the car over Sawtooth. I'm having a hard time deciding on my first nights camp. Is Redwood Meadow Grove a viable campsite? Or should I just plan on Cliff Creek? All the way to Bear Paw Meadow is a bit of a stretch for day one. Does anyone have any thoughts on this? Thank you in advance!

Obviouslay you're going to do what you want but----. Your trip done in reverse is WAY better. First day, Monarch Lake. Second day,over sawtooth pass and camp below the big lake. The camp sights on the lake are inferior to the ones on the creek below. Third day to the ranger station lake. Fourth day, day hike long lake. Fourth day you can hike out if you want, over the cross country route to Monarch Lake and out.

Thank you for your response! However I'm looking to visit Bear Paw Meadow, Hamilton Lake, and Precipice Lake. Then come into the Big Arroyo. And I'm not sure I want to ascend Sawtooth Pass. Coming down it was hard enough!! I guess what I'm asking is, is "Redwood Meadow Grove" a place to camp? I only see a ranger station on the map. It doesn't indicate a Bear box (I have a bear vault) or camping area.

I didn't pay enough attention to where you were going. Redwood meadow is a worthwhile stop. I stayed there one night while on a trip to the lake under eagle scout lake.

Eagle Scout peak

Perfect. That's what I was hoping. Thanks for the quick response!!

It doesn't indicate a Bear box (I have a bear vault) or camping area.

You have bear boxes at Cliff Creek/Timber Gap Trail Junction, then at Pinto Lake, and after that at Bearpaw Meadow. There are campsites at the trail fork, at the northwestern part of the Redwood Meadow, and yes it is worth visiting.

That'a good news. Thank you maverick!

I did that loop a couple years ago. Redwood Meadow might not have water later in the summer depending on snow pack. At least that was what I remember.