John Muir Trail campsite to Onion Valley Trailhead
(7.8 miles, +1,600/-2,600 feet).

We woke up early (as usual!) and hit the trail way before sunrise.  We did the short last bit of the Pacific Crest Trail before turning off towards Bullfrog Lake.

The alpenglow was just settling in as we arrived at Bullfrog Lake, lighting up East and West Vidette.

We got water and took our time wandering around the lake and soaking in the early morning gorgeousness.  Soon we were back on trail, where we found a boulder with character.

As we climbed up towards Kearsarge Pass, the Kearsarge Lakes came into view under the Kearsarge Pinnacles (who was this Kearsarge guy anyway?).

As we hiked to the east, the rising ridge of the pass raced the sun upward, making sunrise last for an hour.

With no time pressure, I stopped to take pictures of many flowers along the way.

Finally, we made it back to the pass.  This time, we were the only ones there.  We rested and snacked and then started down towards Onion Valley.

The walk down on the other side was pleasant and uneventful.  I continued taking pictures of plants and the beautiful views from the trail.

Soon we could see our car.  I always feel conflicted on the last day.  So glad to get back to civilization, but so sad to be leaving nature.