John Muir Trail - southern portion

Bench Lake and Arrow Peak

I spent nine days backpacking the southern section of the John Muir Trail this august.  We entered through Taboose Pass, with its 6.000 feet of elevation gain in eight miles, and exited at Trail Crest and Mt Whitney, with a 6,000+ foot descent.  In between was probably the most sublime alpine scenery I have every experienced, with the possible exception of the Wind River Range.  Perfect weather and incredible scenery at every turn, truly a spectacular backpacking trip.  Standing atop Mt Whitney and looking 10,000 feet straight down the east side desert is something I've always wanted to do.  Every step of the way this backpack was great.  Wow. 

Rae Lakes

From Mt Whitney

Looking back up toward Whitney