A Backpack Cross-Country Traverse of the Minarets

Shadow Lake, looking East. Yup, that peak is one of the "Two Teats". No really: look on a map. The peak on the left is Jan Joaquin Mountain. And on that mountain, traversing is the Pacific Crest Trail. Why would you do that section of the PCT if the JMT was dry? This marks the 200th picture of this story.

Shadow Lake

A Cross-Country Traverse of the Minarets, August/September 2006

When I got here in 1999, I was shocked and surprised. Everywhere I looked were signs that said camping was not allowed. The camp I stayed at when I did the JMT was off limits, as was anywhere along the lake or along Shadow Creek. I don't know what the regs are today, but I bet it is the same or similar. Still, it is such a short distance from the Agnew Meadow Trailhead, you might was well head on down the JMT or up to Ediza Lake.

Looking West over Shadow Lake towards the Minarets and Ritter and Banner peaks, a picture taken on a calm day in 1992 on my JMT trip.

It is a shame, because Shadow Lake is an exceptionally beautiful lake with outstanding views all around, and low enough to swim fairly cool water. When I arrived at this lake on the JMT (1992) trip, my camera made it to Ediza Lake, but I didn't. I was sick to my stomach at the time and Dave went up to Ediza to take pictures while I stayed at the lake. I also had to leave the JMT for Agnew Meadow because my hip belt (external frame) broke and needed replacing. The 1999 trip was to make up for what I missed of the JMT and to visit the Minarets. I got back on the JMT in 1992 via Duck Pass.

From my JMT trip of 1992, Shadow Lake. Dave on the left, and Kevin on the right taking a picture. Calm days make for great pictures.

Coming from Ediza Lake, the Agnew Meadow trailhead trail is to the left at the trail fork. The lake trail is as pleasant as the rest of the trail has been so far, even more so because of the views over Shadow lake.