weekend in desolation

I just got back from a spontaneous weekend backpacking trip to Desolation Wilderness (in the Sierra mountains). It was amazing. We camped at 9000 feet, surrounded by small mountain lakes, wildflowers and amazing granite views. here are some photos (click on photos to zoom in):


Once you get above the treeline, Desolation Wilderness is mostly granite, which makes for great views and comfortable hiking.


We hiked in about 4 miles to an elevation of about 9000 feet. There were wildflowers everywhere along the way.



We camped near this small lake, and swam in it both days. If you look closely, you can see one of our friends diving off the big rock.



Once we set up camp, we went on hikes up the steep slopes around us.



You can see our tents in the bottom right of this photo.



Hiking up a rock slide for a good view.