Description:
This is a backpacking trip. We meet at the Lodgepole Visitor Center of Sequoia National Park as walk-in backpackers at 7:00 a.m.
But I will line up at 6:00 a.m. or earlier in the morning to secure a backpacking permit for 6. Based on the last time I did this trail on a weekend, most likely we will get the permits because we are starting the hike on a weekday. Also, it helps a lot when one lines up at the door of the visitor center very early in the morning. But if we don’t get permits, we will hike the trail as a day hike, which would still be a gorgeous hike.
Also, May 20, 2021 is still considered off-season. So, we may even just need to self register without going through the trouble of getting permits.
The hike is only 12 miles on an out and back trail. But it is considered difficult because of the high altitude (highest elevation of 10,610 ft.) and the elevation gain of 2,900 ft. The trail we will use passes through Heather Lake and Emerald Lake via the Watchtower.
Hopefully, posting this event very early will give time for people to train and prepare.
Duration: 2 Days
AllTrails info:
For Safety:
Bring backpacking gear, with provisions for 2 days.
COVID-19 RULES:
1. This hike is limited to 6 participants.
2. Social distancing should be observed on the trail and at the peak.
3. Participants are required to carry a mask and wear it as much as practicable throughout the duration of the event. Masks are required when less than 6 feet from each other at the peak.
4. Hikers should not attend this hike if they show any sign of COVID-19 symptoms (like: Fever or chills, Cough, Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, Fatigue, Muscle or body aches, Headache, New loss of taste or smell, Sore throat, Congestion or runny nose, Nausea or vomiting, and Diarrhea)
5. Hugging and handshakes are discouraged.
Directions:
Use a map app and enter, as follows: Lodgepole Visitor Center, 63100 Lodgepole Rd, Sequoia National Park, CA 93262
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The Fine Print
The Farzan Rule: “Posted hike times are the time the hike starts or we leave from a posted shuttle location. I’m aware other Meetup groups offer a grace period for late arrivals; we don’t. It’s your responsibility to know the location of the meeting spot and be there and ready to participate at the posted time. If you have any concerns about the directions feel free to contact the organizer of the event, preferably in advance of the event and not at the start time. I’m of the opinion that it’s not fair to delay an event when the majority of attendees have arrived on-time. (so named after a conversation I had with a certain un-named member)” ~Don T.
RSVP’s: If you RSVP for an event be responsible and update your RSVP if your plans change. If your plans change at the last second and you’re not able to update your RSVP also let us know. In my opinion a no-show is someone who has no regard for following the guidelines we request from our members and will risk being removed from future events that have a limit.
DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY:
IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ BELOW IN ITS ENTIRETY
I am a volunteer (i.e. not liable for the group). Safety is a priority for everyone in the group. Think of this as hiking with a group of friends.
Outdoor sports and other events we plan can be inherently dangerous and accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you’re taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Valencia Hiking Crew Meetup Group and its organizers are not trained leaders and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in trips. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions. If you choose to sign up for any Valencia Hiking Crew Meetup events, you are releasing the Valencia Hiking Crew Meetup Group and it’s organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries as stated in paragraph 6.2 of the Meetup “Terms of Service” located on the bottom of the Meetup website. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience.
