Sonora Pass, June Lake, and Hot Creek

Now that spring has finally arrived in Lake Tahoe, the mountain passes are starting to open.  Last week we drove south to Sonora Pass.  The pass has been closed all winter because it is so high in elevation, but it was scheduled to open at noon one day last week and we were the FIRST vehicle through the gate.

Lots of snow remains above 9,000 ft. 

Snow capped peaks in the distance. 

What a nice spot for a picnic lunch... with a view of Leavitt Falls. 

The view of the bottom of the falls from the picnic area. 

Following Caltrans to the top of the pass!  

At the top of Sonora Pass we found a place that looked suitable for skiing so we got out the skis, strapped on the skins, and began climbing to the top.  

At this time, I would like to formally issue an apology to my dear husband. As we were getting our gear ready to go skinning, I realized that there was only 1 platypus (the water bladder that goes in our backpacks so we have easy access to take a sip of water whenever we need it while we are skinning).  Fortunately, we had water bottles so I was still able to carry water but it was MUCH more inconvenient because if I got thirsty I had to stop and take my backpack off.  Anyway, I was grumpy during the whole hike.  Mike would offer me water from his, but I refused out of spite.  I threw myself a little pity party.  It happens occasionally.  

Mike getting some needed hydration at the top (please note the convenience). 

Pity party is over... sitting on top of the world.  

My mode of transportation in the snow... and Mike's truck WAY in the distance in the small parking area.  

Last weekend, Mike and I took another trip South of Tahoe.  We camped Friday night at June Lake.  The scenery on the drive down was beautiful!

Mono Lake - a salt water lake. 

A rushing stream feeding Grant Lake (I think???)

June Lake is an awesome area.  There is an adorable little fishing town, surrounded by tons of lakes.  Our campsite had views of the crystal clear/teal waters of June Lake PLUS awesome views of the surrounding mountain peaks.  It was like all the quaint aspects of the fishing towns on the St. Lawrence River plus the awesomeness of the peaks in the Swiss Alps!  The high sierra is truly a beautiful area.

A little paddleboarding as the sun starts setting. 

Watching Mike paddleboard. 

Z gets his own chair and blanket by the campfire.  

The view of the peaks from our tent.  

After spending some time at June Lake and the surrounding smaller lakes, we drove down towards Mammoth Lakes for the afternoon.  We stopped just outside Mammoth at a place called Hot Creek which is literally a creek/river that is fed by several natural hot springs.  The water temp in the creek is perfect - a mix of the cold water from upriver plus the water coming in from the springs.

The view from the top of the trail. 

 It was an awesome weekend with beautiful weather (something I am getting VERY used to).  We were all pleasantly exhausted.  

Caught Z sleeping with his head up on the way home. 

 The drive home was beautiful!  Despite our exhaustion, we stopped for a few more pictures of the beautiful scenery along the Carson River.  

That's it for now, but we are always looking for more adventures in the Sierra!