Big Five / Little Five Lakes Loop

Looking back at the camp woods, you can barely see Pinto Lake to the right of the woods.

The "Step"

Big 5, Little 5 Lakes Loop and Sawtooth Pass, August 4th to 7th, 2000.

Eventually it was time to get it together and hike up another large step of the canyon. Actually, it was a fairly short hike interspersed with occasional stops for views down the canyon as it all opened up for me to see. I was at the top of the timberline so my viewing was unobstructed. At the top of the step with a few scattered trees in a broad grassy area that sported at least one small spot for a bivy, I decided another rest break was in order because from that point on I would be on the lengthily switchbacks climbing to Black Rock Pass.

Looking up, I tried in vain to find Black Rock Pass somewhere above me.

After looking at the 7.5 map I looked up but could not decide just where the pass was, and from the angle I was looking, I could not see any trail or people. So I took a picture in the correct direction hoping to be able to identify the pass later. I was really enjoying where I was, considering the cool breeze, shade, and the wide-open far views. But eventually I forced myself onto my feet, cinched up my hip-belt tight, gritted my teeth for what was to be one of the most drawn out and grueling trail passes I have ever endured in the Sierra.