Hi Sierras with Austin--Backpacking Trip May 23-25, 2013

Austin and I had a memorable adventure in the High Sierras, hiking the Jenny Lake Loop in Sequoia National Forest/National Monument over the Memorial Day Weekend.

 

Loading up in the driveway, early Thursday morning.

Thanks to Grandpa Steve and Grandma Marion for letting us borrow their 4-Runner

 

 After a long drive, through awesome Dinuba, CA, where we stopped at the Walmart for fishing licenses and gear, we arrived at Fox Meadows Trailhead, near Big Meadows in Sequoia National Forest

 

 Loading our backpacks

 Pointing to our trip location:

Jenny Lakes Wilderness

3 days hiking, 2 nights camped at lakes

 First night's camp: Weaver Lake

Austin's fist pump!

No luck fishing tonight.

 Nice camp set up.

We made a nifty campfire and told stories late into the night.

It was cold: temp dropped to the low 30s.

Tent was way too small: I couldn't stretch out my legs!

 On the trail Friday, Day 2.

Killer hike: 9 miles, seemed like 19

We dropped down one canyon 500+ feet, then hiked back out, and up/over a pass.

 Checking the map along  the trail. 

Are we there yet?

We chatted with one hiker who was separated from his group, w/o a map--

saved him from going 10 miles the wrong direction!

Along the trail, early in the day because I still have the strength to smile.

Notice Austin's reflection in my sunglasses.

 Taking a break.

 Thursday, "lunchtime" at 330 pm.

Austin spotted this funny looking log along the trail.

We were hiking, from 1030 am to 6:00 pm when we eventually reached Jenny Lake.

Seldom have I been so exhausted.

Austin kept me encouraged and set a great pace.

We had lots of time to talk about everything.

Saturday morning at Jenny Lake:

 Austin catches our breakfast after just 10 minutes.

A nice rainbow trout.

Before Austin cleaned the fish.

 Baking our fish in the coals.

 Enjoying the morning campfire.

 Austin enjoying his freshly cooked trout breakfast.

 Saturday afternoon, after our hike out. Austin signs the register: GREAT HIKE.

Saturday was easier, mostly downhill and a lot shorter!

Austin said: "Do a fist pump, Dad! Show everyone you still have some energy left!

Austin and I had an Epic Hike!

The only thing that would have made it better is if more of "the brothers" could have come!