Day Eight
Moonbow Falls at Alexandria Flat to Sparrow Valley
The foothill paths along the southeastern stretch of the Mackenzie Lake Loop offer some of the most spectacular views in the entire park.
After a day at arid Alexandria Flat, the sprawling vista of trees is quite the wonder to behold—just be mindful of the steady incline in the first half of the trek, which can be troublesome for the unprepared.
Hikers will rejoice at what awaits on the other side, though: Sparrow Valley—along with the majestic Sparrow Valley Falls—is the perfect landing place for anyone planning a day trip to summit Mount Valerie, offering no shortage of beautiful scenery and a respite from the arduous trails.
Spend two nights, if you can, to take in the sights.
—Henry Herrington, Backpacking the Sierras: A Beginner’s Handbook (Fourth Edition)