Backpacking Emigrant Wilderness, Stanislaus National Forest, California

Sonora, California

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Out-and-Back

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Added by Samantha and Louis Zhao

The Quick and Dirty:Location – Stanislaus National ForestDistance – Varies, 10 miles to Gem LakeTerrain Type – Flat terrain, Switchbacks, Stairs.Difficulty – Intermediate to StrenuousBest Time – Summer through FallSpecial Conditions – High water in creeks, mosquitoes in early summer and parking lot has a nice backpacker campsite to stay at for the night before.

Emigrant Wilderness is located between Yosemite National Park and Lake Tahoe in the Sierra Nevadas. Like many Sierra Nevada locations, there are plenty of lakes, established primitive camp sites and sweeping views after every climb. The trails well maintained and each destination has great camp spots. With the recent fires, there are still areas of forest that are completely blackened. There is no quota, but a backcountry permit is required.

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