Chapter 66
DAY TEN
Sparrow Valley Falls to Mount Valerie to Lavender Fields
Mount Valerie—while not the tallest peak in the Sierras, measuring just shy of ten thousand feet, about two-thirds the height of Mount Whitney—is the perfect way to finish off a trek around the Mackenzie Lake Loop.
Bring significant sun protection and a way to filter water fresh from the crystal-clear alpine lakes you’ll encounter along the way, and make sure you have the correct permits on hand to present to the attending park ranger.
Look out for the lockbox at the base of the mountain, where you can store nonessential personal items and pick up a set of hiking poles—just remember to trade everything back at the end.
If you experience symptoms of altitude sickness, retreat to lower elevation as soon as possible.
Mount Valerie is a challenge, but it’s well worth it.
Enjoy the stunning view when you get to the top!
—Henry Herrington, Backpacking the Sierras: A Beginner’s Handbook (Fourth Edition)