Stuck in the Snow in May

Looking for a short hike to subject my camping buddies to I turned to my trusty "California Hiking" book. Tom Stienstra recommended two hikes close to each other, both promising great scenery, views and serenity. One called Shadow of the Giants and the other Fresno Dome.



The first hike was highly recommended for people wanting to see Giant Sequoia trees, but avoid the crowds at Mariposa Grove in Yosemite NP (and the $20 per car fee.) The second hike would end with amazing views over pine filles valleys and a glimpse of Bass Lake, the book promised.

The first hike was indeed great and quiet. It was a bit of an adventure to get there, a good part of the drive was on unpaved roads with holes and mud. Good thing my car has some clearance and AWD. Along the way we saw people camping out with trailers, RVs, camouflage clothing and ATVs.

We never got to the second spot, which also had some off roading. There was too much snow left on the road leading up to Fresno Dome. So much snow that a 4WD pick up truck got stuck and needed to be rescued by a Jeep Wrangler.