Bear Lakes Basin

cover photo
Jul 05, 2018 - Jul 08, 2018

Loop climbs Pine Creek trail,traverses Granite Park and Bear Lakes Basin, over Feather Pass to junction with French Canyon Trail & upcanyon to Pine Creek Pass.

The mosquitos were out in full force but they couldn't ruin this epic 4 day loop through absurdly gorgeous terrain. Much of it x-country & free from crowds.

Highlights: Granite Park, snow traverse from Italy pass to Dancing Bear pass, ridiculous beauty of Bear Lakes Basin, descending from Feather Pass to French Canyon trail through rugged terrain.

Fun facts

Getting a hammock setup in treeless terrain took much longer than I thought. Spent a good 3 hours scouting rocks, trying various attachments until I found a perfect shelf.

DifficultyClass 1 & 2 (xc with 3 passes)
Distance~30 miles
Nights3
Highest ElevationItaly Pass (12320 ft)
JurisdictionWhite Mountain Ranger District, Bishop
MapTom Harrison Maps Mono Divide High Country
TrailheadPine Creek