Day two of our five day journey took us from Hamilton Lake toward Moraine Lake. Our 15 mile hike towards Moraine Lake started off with a huge climb over the pass, which covered roughly two miles and 2,000 feet of elevation gain to 10,500 feet. This scenic view took us from a rocky, more brush like environment towards a wooded lake area. The diversity of the landscapes is amazing, and keeps you interested throughout the long days hike. Here is our track for the day, which looks better on satellite view.

I woke up early, so I had a little bit of time to explore around Hamilton Lakes. We were suppose to try fishing, but arrived at the lake a little too late the night before. But there were definitely a lot of fish swimming in the creek leading away from the lake.

Sarah and Jason, still sound asleep.

Before we left our camp, we needed to fill our bottles and pouches with fresh lake water. Here is Jason, reflecting before our journey toward Moraine Lake.

And off we go.

Although the paths are well maintained, at a glance it looks like we are traversing some pretty rough boulders.

I kept on taking some photos of Hamilton Lake as we got higher, with the drastic elevation change changing the perspective.

Hamilton lake, from the other end.

The trees in the Sierras are pretty spectacular and spooky at the same time.

Our overview of the Lake and the valley below.

I attempted to get different views of our group, I love to get some reference for the hikes I am on. This really gives you a sense of scale of the place.

Time for a little break. I knew that the view across this canyon would be great, so I waited for everyone to pass.

And here are the shots that came out of it.

Rock bridge.

Although the Sierras are different from the terrain back in the east, with a slightly more arid condition, there are still wildflowers and colors that bloom all around.

Little Precipice Lake.

The top is in sight.

Our first stop for the day, Precipice Lake.

Glaciers/snow pack still here even in the middle of summer. There should be more in this area, but the previous year didn’t snow.

Walking through the pass.

After we walked to the other side of the pass, I took a quick panorama of the area. We just had to make it over the mountain to get to Moraine Lake, unfortunately we were looking to travel around the peak.

Soon, a different tip of tree was prevalent. Different soil conditions and rainfall on the other side of the pass.

The low water river crossings.

Ian enjoying lunch.

And Jason taking a look at the map, seeing how much further we had till our destination.

We then entered a different landscape, this time one of my favorite types that give you natural shade.

Our great campsite for the night, which helped block the bright moonlight, but prevented the subsequent star gazing.

Moraine Lake, for another quick swim.

Laundry

And some fishing in a lake with no fish. (Don’t tell Jason that.)

Late night water filtering to get ready for some grub and to rehydrate for the next day.

We will thank Rooks for building the fire.