Читать книгу Sierra South. Backcountry Trips in California's Sierra Nevada онлайн

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The path crosses Fleming Lake’s outlet and soon meets a junction with the Hell For Sure Pass Trail at the foot of a long meadow dotted with colorful wildflowers. Turn left (north) here and climb to a shaded hillside junction with the short spur trail leading to Rae Lake (9889´; 11S 335881 4113427). Idyllic campsites lie beneath the trees on the north banks of the lake, and there is good fishing for brook trout.

DAY 3 (Rae Lake to Devils Punchbowl, 4 miles): Return to the Hell For Sure Trail junction. Turn left (east) and shortly ford Fleming Creek. The path then begins a 500-foot ascent that starts on a tree-covered slope with patches of meadow and wildflowers. With the terrain growing dry and sandy, the trail gains a ridgetop and briefly turns south to cross open meadows and seasonal creeks before heading east again.

In another mile, find the unsigned junction with a trail to Devils Punchbowl next to a tall, gray stump. Turn right (south) and pass a small lake before dropping 300 feet to reach East Fork Fleming Creek. The trail crosses at a rocky ford (wet in early season) and then climbs 300 feet to the low ridge on the north side of Devils Punchbowl. Good campsites are located on the east side of the lake (10,098´; 11S 337471 4110684). The lake is popular with hikers and fishermen, so please make an effort to minimize your impact. This ideal location makes a great spot for a layover day, as the rugged terrain of Red Mountain Basin on all sides begs for exploration.