The Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne and Falls

A small true tarn (with no inlet or real outlet), here in an early season fresher state. This body of water tends to dry up late season.

A Small Tarn

The Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne and Falls, June 2004

Finally the trail dumped out near a rocky hill, leveled out, and actually climbed a bit to remind me how tired I really was. Not too bad, but ready to rest soon.

A short drop led to a section that really was level, which passed a small tarn on the right. I am sure it supported a happy population of frogs. It all looked interesting, but it was not a place I would want to camp. A trail-side curiosity with an interesting geology story I am sure.

You can clearly see the gash of the stream coming down the granite canyon wall, which the trail crosses. You can also see the general route of the trail back to Harden Lake. Don't drink the water.

Beyond the pond the trail once again dropped down, this time steeply lowering us to an interesting shaded flat with camping possibilities. A few steps off the trail gave me a beautiful view down river (see the next page). We decided to push on.

The trail undulated a bit and lowered us to another large flat expanse with an outstanding stand of timber. Off to the left was a huge beautiful camp area next to the river with a fire ring. We had found home.