Twenty Lakes Basin

We have our friend Kelsey to thank for introducing us to this gem of a hike hiding in the shadows of Yosemite.

Saddlebag Lake is just a few kilometers from the Tioga Pass entrance to Yosemite, and it doesn't really look like much. So it is a total surprise when the barren trail suddenly opens up to reveal a whole string of picture-perfect alpine lakes and meadows!

Greenstone Lake

	Twenty Lakes Basin
Distance	11km loop 8km loop if you take the water taxi both ways
Difficulty	Easy
Scenery	Awesome, 9/10
Elevation	~3000m
Elevation Gain	~100m

This is a great hike to sandwich between more strenuous endeavours, as you have the option to take a water taxi to/from the far side of the lake if you're feeling tired. The boat ride shaves off 1.5km (each way).

Shamrock Lake, Sept 2014

This is the second time I've hiked this trail and I think it's nicer earlier in the season. Kelsey and I were here in early July a few years ago and there were little waterfalls and streams all over the place! It's still beautiful in September, but with lower water levels and without the snow, it just didn't have the same wow factor.

Kelsey at Steelhead Lake, July 2009

I've also hiked this loop in both directions now, and I think it's nicer to go counter-clockwise. This saves the best for last! The most picturesque part of the trail is definitely between Shamrock Lake and Greenstone Lake.