The Greatest Backpacking Trip in California - Summer in the Sierra Ep. 79

The North Lake to South Lake Loop is the the greatest backpacking trip in California.

This spectacular loop crosses Paiute Pass, parallels the Middle Fork of the San Joaquin river, climbs through Evolution Basin to Muir Pass, drops into LeConte Canyon, climbs into the Dusy Basin, and ends with Bishop Pass—showcasing nearly everything that makes the Sierra Nevada so extraordinary.

But getting there isn't always easy.

There are brutal climbs, unpredictable weather, lingering snow, endless mosquitoes, and high passes that make you earn every view. And somewhere along the way, those difficult moments become part of what makes the trip so memorable.

I've spent years exploring the High Sierra, including a 13-day thru-hike of the John Muir Trail and countless additional days throughout the range. After all that time, this the trip that stands out most.