On a random whim to get another hike in before Kili, I was gently nudged into a 5hour drive to the beautiful Sequoia National Park. Left early Saturday morning and hit the Potwisha campground around 10am. After a little looking around and setting up shop, we headed to the Marble Falls trailhead. This trail climbs 3.9 miles (6km) through chaparral to a lovely cascade. Park near site #14 at Potwisha Campground. (We stayed in campsite #5 and it was awesome!!).
Potwisha Campground Map with directions to Marble Falls trailhead.
http://www.hikespeak.com/trails/marble-falls-sequoia/
http://www.nps.gov/seki/planyourvisit/foothillhikessum.htm
Here is an excellent review and description of the Marble Falls Trail Hike: http://t2hikingfool.blogspot.com/2011/03/roar-and-water-marble-falls-trail.html
After an excellent hike, we set up camp and lazed around the campfire with hotdogs, baked beans, and smores. It was a pretty chilly night, but my Sea & Summit silk thermoliner, patagonia tights, columbia fleece pants, and snowboard pants in a 20 degree F rated sleeping bag with my down coat and wool beanie was incredibly warm! It must’ve been in the 40s — but I felt like I was roasting in the 80s!
In the morning, breakfast was oatmeal with bananas and raisins. We took down the tent and headed out to find the General Sherman Tree and Moro Rock. The views were stunning!! I wish we had done this hike, but we had to head back home.
Here’s a map of the park with some hikes:
I didn’t get a chance to see this website before I went to Sequoia…so I’m letting you know now! Check it out!! http://www.modernhiker.com/best-hikes-in-sequoia-national-park/
The pack I used (the same I’ll use for Kili):
Women’s Osprey Kyte 46L
Women’s Salomon 4D GTX hiking boot
New to hiking?? This website makes some great suggestions on how to get started!
http://hub.sierratradingpost.com/jumpstart-adventurous-2015-teamsierra/
Now, to leave you with a nice bucket list…
http://www.cntraveler.com/galleries/2014-11-26/30-places-to-visit-before-you-turn-30/28
Bite Me 