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The Pioneers' Trek
With Red Slate and Starr Summit Options and Option Stay at Vermillion Valley Resort

This route is undoubtably for the Pioneer at heart! Starting with a gradual climb to Big Mcgee Lake, on Day 2 we climb over Mcgee Pass- where those wanting an extra challenge can trek the extra 1100 ft cross country to the colorful summit of Red Slate- the second highest peak in the Mammoth Lakes area! Our trail then follows the impressive and quiet meadows of Fish Creek, eventually linking up with the JMT which we follow all the way to Lake Edison and Vermillion Valley Resort (7 day option). VVR is a small resort nestled in the high mountains (a big resupply point for those hiking the JMT) and boasts everything from camping, showers, laundry, a rustic small restaurant and store, to yurts and even rooms for those wanting a little more R&R! Our next camp is situated along the quiet and beautiful Mono Creek, and we spend our last night in the spectacular and desolate Pioneer Basin. There is an option to summit Mount Starr on the last day- a fun and personal favorite flaunting the best views of Rock Creek canyon and surrounding mountains, before descending down to the trailhead. With everything from lush meadows to rocky desolate passes, this trek has a little bit of everything, alongside an opportunity to stay at the High Sierra's most unique campground/resort!

DIFFICULTY RATING AND DESCRIPTION

DIFFICULTY RATING (1-5)

4-5

This trek follows well maintained trails and has a moderate to challenging hiking distance of 7-11 miles per day. There will be days of higher elevation gain than others and rocky sections of trail with bigger step-up and step-downs. This trek consists of a mix of on-trail and approximately 3 miles of off trail hiking if summit options are chosen. Due to the elevation gain of this trek and the sections of cross country hiking for the summit options, it is considered a challenging Level 5 hike. Weight carried will be between 30-40lbs. A resupply drop off is available for an additional charge to make this more manageable!

NEED TO KNOW

What's Included?

  • Top-of-the-line tent, backcountry sleeping pad and multi-day backpack, headlamps, utensils and poles.

  • High quality, synthetic sleeping bag (Laundered after every use- $15 cleaning fee) – or bring your own!

  • Breakfast, lunch, and 4-course dinner prepared by your guide while in the field.

  • Professional local mountain guide certified as Wilderness First Responder, Food Handling & Leave No Trace Principles with years of professional and personal wilderness experience and a passion for leading others.

  • Wilderness and National park backcountry camping permits.

  • Bear canisters for food storage.

  • Water Filtration systems- all water filtered by your guide!

  • Emergency equipment including an extensive first-aid kit and satellite communication device (InReach Explorer).

  • For Yosemite National Park Treks: Mandatory 5% national park fee that passes through directly to Yosemite.

  • A discount of 10% off any TrekSierra trip after your first!

ADD A THEME TO YOUR TREK!

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