California
High and dry, and photographer’s light as good as it gets. You could spend a career in the High Sierra. At least three good north south routes exist on pretty good trail, generally. You might try the Pacific Crest Trail, (PCT), the John Muir Trail, or the less official Sierra High Route in places. Get into the high country more quickly from the east.
A trip into this country requires good stamina, to cope with the high altitudes. In summer you will see many people and not much game. You will gain and lose two and three thousand feet, over pass after pass, regularly. This is essentially high desert granite country. Trails are rugged, there are many opportunities to bushwhack, and “stark” is the adjective of choice to many.Â
It is easy to get to a spot where you think you are alone on the earth. This picture is of the First Mono Recess, a spectacular region.Â
The Trinity Alps, in far northern California,  are worthy of consideration. Generally referred to as part of the “Klamath” ranges, we like to go up Canyon Creek or the Stuart basin. Various old mining remnants may be seen.  These mountains can be warm in summer.Â
Marble Mountain wilderness is in the same general area, where the best trip is probably into the Sky High Lakes area.
Mount Shasta is part of the Cascade Range, where some of the lower flanks may offer short backpacks. It is pretty easy to scramble to the top, if accompanied by experienced parties.
First Mono Recess, California’s Sierra Nevada
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