"Circle Of Solitude" Backpacking Trip

Kings Canyon National Park (SEKI)

(Avalanche Pass, Colby Pass, Forester Pass Loop)


6 days, August 23rd to August 28th, 2014

72 miles
Elevation Ascent: 17202 ft






After the busy trails of the JMT and HST, I was looking for a bit more solitude for this hike. The loop named "Circle of Solitude" in Mike White's book "Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks: Your Complete Hiking Guide" seemed just the ticket.

The route makes a loop, starting on the West side of the Sierra Nevada at Roads End (just past Cedar Grove, in Kings Canyon National Park). It climbs up Sphinx Creek drainage, up and over Avalanche Pass, then Colby Pass, then over Forester Pass and back to Roads End.
COS TOPO


August 22nd 2014
I was looking for a more secluded hike for this trip. I know the trail will be more difficult than I am used to, with much steeper elevation changes. But this section of trail between Bubbs Creek and the Junction with the JMT should be pretty isolated and quiet.

I had planned on getting to Fresno early, and driving to Cedar Grove to pick up my permit the day before I wanted to hike. That way I could get on the trail EARLY. I have heard the hike up to Sphinx Creek would be exposed and hot. Alas... My flight was cancelled, and they put me on a later flight (same day thankfully). Once I landed in Fresno (FAT), I grabbed a rental car and drove to pick up a fuel (alcohol). Tried Walmart (not a nice neighborhood) and they did not have any. Drove to Home Depot and they had it. I go back and forth between canister stoves and alcohol stoves. Am using alcohol this trip...

I drove to Cedar Grove, and grabbed a campsite in Moraine Campground. I was just about the only person there! Took a shower and ate a burger at the Lodge. Moskies were bad...

Since I arrived too late to get my permit today, I will have to wait in line tomorrow at the Roads End permit station when they open at 7am.

COS elevation profile







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