Day 10 - Thousand Island Lake to Mammoth Mountain...

The ladies pack up and head south again towards Garnet Lake, another jewel in this part of the Sierra.


As they come around the bend, they are treated to a beautiful sight...


At the outlet to Garnet Lake, the gals stop for a rest and some lunch.


Another view from above...

Unfortunately, Linda's knees are not doing well and Janet's leg is really bothering her. She is afraid that she has suffered a stress fracture. They talk about the options and make the decision to leave the John Muir Trail and head downhill to a spot below Garnet Lake where they can pick up the Pacific Crest Trail. Here they can divert to the Agnew Meadows trailhead to catch the Mammoth Mountain Shuttle and a ride to the resort there. This will cut off several miles of trail and put them into civilization one day early.


Nana climbs a rock to make cell phone contact with me and advises of their plans...


Their "off trail" diversion takes them down a snow chute - some glissading is involved...


This route also involved a tricky water crossing. Luckily for the girls, there is another group there with ropes and a kind hand to assist...


Once on the PCT, they enter the Ansel Adams Wilderness. Not long afterwards, they make it to the trailhead and flag down a passing bus...


The Mammoth Mountain Inn...

Here they score a $500 a night condo for a mere $99. Hot baths, a great gourmet meal (that costs more than the condo!) and a good night's rest is just what the doctor ordered...