On the climb to the pass you emerge from the tree line at a lake at 10,000'. You then climb in a large arc to the east and pass one last lake before the vast scramble of rock that is common of these passes.
Upon reaching the last lake I came upon a group of about 8 or so trail maintainers. They are with the Calif Conservation Corp. CCC. I have learned not to ask how they got that job, but instead make sure to thank them for the amazing work they do. They said they are working from April till late Sept. That is just incredible, hitting a stone with a hammer on some random step in the middle of nowhere. One interesting note is that about half of them are usually young women.
The final ascent to Donohue was windy and solitary. My last time here was with Mike in July 2011 when it was still a snow field. Now the trail was visible. Not as direct as the snow path but much safer. Donohue is significant because it marks the end of Yosemite and the beginning of the Ansel Adams Wilderness Area.
The view to the south is very different. You know right away you are entering something unique and special. The Ritter Range defines the western boundary and everything east is connected with stunning lakes and streams.
A quick climb up Island pass grants access to a view of 1000 Island Lake. It is a hugh lake with about 1000 islands, go figure. To the south, the trail gave me my first look at Garnet Lake. It is now at the top of my favorite list. It sits below Ritter and Banner peaks. As I came around a corner there was a perfect tent site overlooking Garnet. I was done for the day.
Thanks for following
DW
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| Donahue Pass |
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| CCC gal chisels a granite step |
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| 1000 Island lake |
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| My campsite above Garnet lake |
I booked a few meetings with the CCC but never knew that this is what they do. My hats off to them! Love, Donna
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