San Gorgonio two ways with a side of Whitney – 6 of 6 part 1

Solo adventure: Dry Lake → Dollar Lake lollipop via South Fork TH

July 15, 2021

It looks like Whitney might still be a go! I had been reading up on the challenges of altitude acclimation for Whitney and it was time to spend more time at higher elevations before the big day. I had really enjoyed hiking the South Fork route with some friends back in 2019 and was looking forward to returning for a solo adventure.

I arrived at the TH just before sunset and was pleasantly surprised to have the entire place to myself.  The parking lot sits at ~6800ft and was a good spot to catch some z's and get a little altitude acclimation before heading out. (For the record: I adore Tazio, our little Fiat Abarth, but I'm getting too old to play contortionist so I can fit in the trunk/back for a nap! ?)

I wasn't expecting to experience three sunrises as I set out at dawn the next morning. The vantage point towards the horizon kept changing as I made my way up the mountain – the sun would rise, then disappear, only to rise again from a different point at a later time – it was breathtaking!

I was shocked to find Dry Lake… well… bone dry when I arrived.  There had been plenty of water there in October 2019 and this was only July (see contrasting pic)  – a stark reminder of the drought conditions we are experiencing.  After pushing on to the summit, soaking in the views and hanging out with the chipmunk bandits, it was time to make my way back down via Dollar Lake.

This is not the trail you're looking for!

Favorite sign of all times (located at the start of the Dollar Lake trail, right after you've passed the Vivian Creek junction): This trail does not lead to Vivian Creek Trailhead ?

It's becoming more difficult to pick a favorite hike but this is definitely one of them!

Next up: San Gorgonio via Vivian Creek this time – first time on this trail.  This is a shorter but much steeper hike with more elevation gain.  A perfect final step towards my Whitney prep.