A Backpack to the Remote Lyell Fork of the Merced River

The beginning of alpine-glow at Vogelsang Lake. Note the trail swinging around the lake.

Vogelsang Lake

A Trail and Cross-Country Route to the Lyell Fork, July 2007

One of the last persons we would see for days (three total) came in after us and camped above us among the rocks on the ridge. His name was Jim, and he joined us for a sit-down and a drink or two on the exposed windy ridge above the valleys of Fletcher and Emeric Creeks. When the wind died down the mosquitoes would join us for a backslapping good time and disappear when the wind picked up. Meanwhile, we enjoyed swapping stories and the far ranging views as far as Mt. Conness on the north horizon. Behind us we could see Volgelsang Pass (10,692 Feet) about 300 feet above us and about a mile away. It is an easy pass unless you are dog tired and unacclimated.

The colors begin to deepen and the glow shines off the lake...

Soon enough, it was time for dinner and another sit-down to enjoy the alpine-glow that caught the very last dregs of sunlight from the low western horizon. As soon as the sun set, we were in our respective shelters reading before the usual first night of uneasy sleep.

Vogelsang Pass in the alpine-glow and the shadows of evening.