Knoblock Meadow to 10K lake via Isberg Pass

July 4, 2016

The group crawled out of tents early this morning encouraged along by the smell of freshly brewed camp coffee. Wilson, our lead guide, would have had us out earlier but this had created dissension among the crowd the evening before (groans, mumbles and the like). He was patient as we packed and readied ourselves for the journey to Isberg Pass. Iceberg sits at 11,100' and the trek to the top clearly is an all day, mainly uphill, sub-alpine and alpine climb. Along the way, backpackers can see Sadler Lake and McLure Lake along the west side of the trail and Sadler Peak to the East. Before long the beauty of Ansel Adams is before us.

Knoblock Meadow to Isberg Pass and beyond

Various breaks for water and snacks allowed us to soak in the enormity of this this special location. Lunch at the alpine lake included warps of almond butter, honey, apple, walnut and aged cheddar cheese. Trail mix was a great way of keeping the group at bay as our diligent guides prepared this, and ALL of our delicious meals. 

Up Isberg Pass

After lunch, the group pressed on. It was up, up, and more up as rock led to more rock to climb. The climb was exhilarating, and sometimes daunting for those with sensitivity to heights. Past Sierra Alligator lizards at mid to high elevation and on to fields of snow high upon the ridge of the pass. As we approached the peak, Mount Ansel Adams came into view, a fan favourite!

A well earned break at the top of Isberg Pass allowed for spectacular views in all directions. The Pass marks the official border of Yosemite, where it meets the Sierra National Forest. Day 2 was suddenly my favourite! From Isberg, looking west, we could see the Clark Range with Mount Clark in the distance. Looking NNE the view is of Ansel Adams and Foerster Peak. And looking ahead down into the valley below us we peered at 10K Lake, in an Alpine meadow, our camp for the night. It seemed so close but the trail itself from the top of the pass to the lake in the distance encompasses about 3 miles of rocky decent, forest floor and meadow crossing. 

Our lakeside camp at the headwaters of the Merced River, was surrounded by picturesque 11,000 to 12,000 foot peaks. In total we hiked 9.4 miles (15.1km) to reach this alpine gem.

While battling the millions of mosquitoes, the guides prepared supper while the women prepared their tents. A quick dip in the alpine, snow fed, freezing waters of 10k lake brought relief to sore feet. The women dressed warmly with long underwear, sweaters, jackets and hats to enjoy the cool evening in the mountains. 

Between caprese appetizers and a fantastic supper of sausage, onion, zucchini, spinach and a balsamic reduction, the women explored the area. It wasn't long before bear paw prints had been identified in the sand heading off toward the Triple Peak Fork. This created mixed response from the women, some angst and some excitement. 

Day 2 was topped off by a beautiful sunset, alpinglow reflecting on the surrounding mountains and a beautiful starry night.

The Pass

Looking to the WNW from Isberg Pass

A break at the top

Entering Yosemite

It was fascinating to be able to see 2-3 days ahead on our route from such a distance. The mountains in the distance seemed like worlds away, and yet we approached them within days.....and each point is just another "mile, mile and a half".