August 26, 2014 - Monarch Lake Trail

Title: August 26, 2014 - Monarch Lake Trail

Trail head: Timber Gap Parking Area

Hike Info:

Type:  Hiking

Trail: Monarch Lake/Sawtooth Pass

Destination: Monarch Lake

Actual Destination: 9,800' level, about a mile before Monarch Lakes

Distance: 6.67 miles

Start Time:  11:30

End Time:     5:16

Travel Time: 5:46 (1.16 mph)

Moving Time: 3:43(1.80 mph)

Elevation Rise: 2,0

Maximum Elevation: 9,778'

View of Farewell Gap area and Parking Lot

Description:
I got in a good walk this morning. Walked up to the a Eagle/Mosquito Lakes Trail head. Then I came down the nature trail back to camp. A pretty good walk, while watching the morning shadows being replaced by light. Sherri was just getting up. We finished our pancake breakfast around 9:30 and cleaned up our camp. Talked with the ranger about the area. Then went over to the ranger station to see if they had suggestions for us. We finally decided to go toward Monarch Lakes.

Monarch Creek

Around 11:30 we start off. In the first half mile, the cars look small. We have gone up 600' and have reached the trail junction with Timber Gap. We go right and our climb becomes more moderate. Make no mistake, we still are going up, but the trail seems almost gentle in comparison. We are exposed some to the sun, but today is a good hiking day.

Trail up towards Monarch Lake

With the trail rising, the sight of the southern part of Mineral King come into view, including where White Chief Mine is, our hike with the meetup group tomorrow. Also Sawtooth looms bigger in front of us. We cross Monarch Creek and find a nice spot for lunch. While having lunch, several groups come by-until now we had not seen very many, but it seems like everybody was deserting the backcountry, or at least completing the Monarch Loop.

Mineral King

As we go up, we get some nice views of the Mineral King  area. A division of low greenery and ragged mountain tops-country I like. But the afternoon is getting late and we did not start early enough to make it to Monarch Lake. Our 3pm turn around time looms as we get to the 9,800' level.

Sawtooth Peak

From 9,800' we turn around and head back, making pretty good time. When we cross Monarch Creek, there is a little trail heading north. I think it may go to a little mound to get an overlook, but the view is only ok. But the trail goes on and looks like it may continue up to Sawtooth Pass-something to look into. I turn around and catch up with Sherri. Before long, we are back at the car. 

Sawtooth Peak

Sawtooth Pass

Monarch Creek Area

When we return back to Cold Springs Campground, Rob has joined us. Sherri and I go on to Silver a City and gave a pleasant dinner with Cathey and John. By the time we return, Robert B has joined our campsite. After talking for a few minutes, it is time to crawl in my sleeping bag for a good night sleep.



 

Sawtooth Pass

White Chief Area

Sherri on way down

Parking Lot