Hello Friends,
Yesterday I was able to make use of my Squaw Alpine season pass for the coming winter season. I used it to ride the Squaw Valley Tram which is great way to avoid the first portion of a hike from Squaw to Alpine Meadows. Yesterday was a beautiful day in Tahoe, perfect for a nice day hike. From the top of the tram I walked up to the top of the Emigrant Lift through fields of Mule Ear that are beginning to turn from spring green to fall brown. Some still have yellow flowers, but many are passed their prime. The sky was clear blue and the views stunning. A couple of photos are attached that I took from the west side of the Emigrant Peak.
The trail drops down into the Five Lakes drainage which is protected by the Granite Chief Wilderness. The trail winds down through open slopes covered greenery this time of year. Where the trail crosses a trickling stream bed wildflowers still stand tall blooming yellow, pink, purple, and orange. I passed a number of old growth native pine trees that offer shade that is especially welcome on a hot summer day. Further down the west facing slope I came in contact with a cool running stream that represents the headwaters of Whisky Creek. This makes a great stop for lunch.
Not long after the lunch stop one arrives at the Whisky Creek junction. If you have the time, turn right and walk about half a mile to the old cabins set along side Whisky Creek where sheep herders spent their summers. ! The trail turns uphill at this point heading to Five Lakes. Look for old Juniper Trees along this section of the trail. By the way, most of this hike from the back side of Emigrant Peak to a point near the Five Lakes Basin is on the Pacific Crest Trail. The PCT heads right at a point before our trail reaching Five Lakes.
I ended up at the base of the Five Lakes Trail in Alpine Meadows. I did not stop long except to chat with a few hikers, some heading for Canada. The hike took about 4 hours. Views are stunning, and the trail is in good condition.
Enjoy your day,
Andy Wertheim
