Trees were showing off their fall colors on the eastern side of the Sierra but it wouldn’t last long. I headed to Lundy Canyon to check out the aspens before forecasted winds stole the show away.
Where: Inyo National Forest, Hoover Wilderness
Elevation Range: 7,800′
Date: October 15, 2019
Maps: Big Alkali, Buckeye Ridge, Falls Ridge and June Lake Topographic Quad
Dog Hike? Yes
Sally and I headed over Tioga Pass for a day trip, driving north on Hwy 395 and then east on Lundy Lake Road. I hadn’t driven up Lundy Lake Road too far before I spotted some color.
Then I cruised Mono County’s Lundy Campground.
I always love checking out the beaver ponds above the old mining town of Lundy. The aspens were a bit past their prime but reflections in the pond never disappoint, especially with those willows casting subtle reflections in the morning light.
I drove the road a bit farther to the second beaver pond,
Lundy canyon is loaded with interesting history that you can read more about in my prior blogs linked below but this trip was just about the pretty colors and reflections. Many areas closer to us are showing fall colors, including Yosemite Valley. If you are wishing to take a local drive, Nelder Grove is probably looking nice. Driving around Oakhurst, Bass Lake and Ahwahnee, you are sure to spot a gorgeous tree.
Dog Friendly?
This area can be a great place to hike with your dog, if your dog is a good fit. There are some rocky areas that can be tough on a dog’s feet, wearing the paw pads down, with the possibility of slicing them. I carry boots with me when I bring Sally, just in case she gets too much wear or an injury to her foot. The water sources that a dog can access are good year round. This is an area that has Bubonic Plague, so need to keep your dogs away from squirrels and rodents. Below are the dog rules for the Hoover Wilderness:
- Dogs are allowed in the Hoover Wilderness, but are not allowed in wilderness areas in adjacent national parks.
- Pet food must be stored to the same standard as people food. In areas where use of a bear resistant food storage container is required, pet food must be stored in your container.
- Leashes protect dogs from becoming lost and from wilderness hazards such as porcupines, mountain lions, and sick, injured or rabid animals.
- Unleashed dogs may intimidate other hikers and their dogs, depriving them of a peaceful wilderness experience.
- Unleashed dogs may harass, injure and sometimes kill wildlife.
- A leashed dog’s keen senses can enhance your awareness of nearby wildlife or other visitors.
Maps:
Prior Blogs in this Area:
Leaf Peeping on the East Side of the Sierra October 22, 2018
Escape with Sally to Lundy Canyon July 19, 2017
Hiking with Sally from Lundy Lake through Mill Creek Canyon September 27, 2016
Hiking with Sally From Lundy Lake to the May Lundy Mine September 27, 2016
Sources:
Patera, Alan, Lundy, Western Places, Lake Grove, Oregon, 2000