Solo Backpacking Trip in the Desolation Wilderness: A 3-Day Adventure308

Outdoor Hiking Log:
Trip: Desolation Wilderness, Lake Tahoe Basin, California
Dates: August 10th - 12th, 2023
Duration: 3 days, 2 nights
Mileage: Approximately 25 miles
Elevation Gain/Loss: ~5,000 ft.
Permit: Obtained through

Day 1: Eagle Falls Trailhead to Aloha Lake (Aug 10th)
The anticipation was palpable as I pulled into the Eagle Falls Trailhead parking lot at 7:00 AM. The lot was already surprisingly full, a testament to the popularity of Desolation Wilderness. After a final gear check and a quick slather of sunscreen, I shouldered my pack and started up the well-maintained trail. The initial ascent was steep, switchbacking relentlessly up the granite face beside the cascading Eagle Falls. The roar of the water was a constant companion, a soothing soundtrack to the burning in my quads.
The views from Eagle Lake were stunning, the turquoise water shimmering under the morning sun. I paused briefly to take photos and hydrate, envious of the campers already settled in at the lakeshore. My destination, however, lay further ahead. Continuing on, the trail climbed higher, traversing through forests of lodgepole pine and fir. The crowds thinned considerably as I gained elevation.
By early afternoon, I reached the junction for Aloha Lake. The final push was challenging, scrambling over rocky terrain, but the first glimpse of Aloha Lake made it all worthwhile. Nestled amidst towering granite peaks, the lake was a vision of alpine beauty. I found a secluded campsite near the outlet stream, set up my tent, and enjoyed a late lunch of dehydrated chili. The afternoon was spent exploring the shoreline, soaking in the tranquility, and watching the changing light play on the surrounding peaks. As evening descended, I cooked dinner, filtered water for the next day, and crawled into my sleeping bag, lulled to sleep by the gentle lapping of the waves.

Day 2: Aloha Lake to Upper Velma Lake and Exploration (Aug 11th)
I woke early to a breathtaking sunrise over Aloha Lake. After a quick breakfast of oatmeal and coffee, I packed up camp and set off towards Upper Velma Lake. The trail wound through a landscape of granite slabs and scattered alpine meadows, offering panoramic views at every turn. I encountered a few fellow backpackers, exchanging brief greetings and trail conditions.
Upper Velma Lake was even more stunning than Aloha. The water was crystal clear, reflecting the surrounding peaks like a mirror. I spent the morning relaxing by the lake, reading, and simply enjoying the solitude. In the afternoon, I decided to explore the area further, scrambling up a nearby ridge for even more spectacular views. From this vantage point, I could see countless other lakes and peaks stretching out in all directions.
The descent back to Upper Velma was slightly treacherous, requiring careful footing on the loose scree. Back at the lake, I prepared a simple dinner and watched the sunset paint the sky in vibrant hues of orange and pink. The stars were incredibly bright that night, unpolluted by city lights. I spent some time stargazing before retiring to my tent, feeling a profound sense of peace and connection with nature.

Day 3: Upper Velma Lake to Eagle Falls Trailhead (Aug 12th)
The morning air was crisp and cool as I broke camp for the final time. After a quick breakfast, I began the long descent back to the trailhead. The hike out was mostly downhill, which was welcome on my tired legs. I stopped frequently to admire the views and take photos, wanting to savor every moment of this incredible experience.
As I approached the Eagle Falls Trailhead, the sounds of civilization became increasingly apparent. The transition from the wilderness back to the bustling parking lot was jarring. I loaded my gear into the car, feeling a mix of satisfaction and a tinge of sadness that the adventure was over.
Gear Notes:
* My lightweight backpacking tent performed flawlessly, providing ample shelter in the unpredictable mountain weather.
* The new hiking boots I broke in before the trip were comfortable and provided excellent ankle support.
* My water filter was essential, allowing me to refill my water bottles from the numerous lakes and streams.
* I appreciated bringing trekking poles, especially on the steep descents.
Lessons Learned:
* Starting early allowed me to avoid the worst of the crowds and the afternoon heat.
* Downloading offline maps proved invaluable, especially in areas with limited cell service.
* Bringing a small first-aid kit is always a good idea, even for short trips.
* Packing light made the hiking much more enjoyable.
Final Thoughts:
This solo backpacking trip in the Desolation Wilderness was an unforgettable experience. The stunning scenery, the challenging hikes, and the solitude provided a much-needed escape from the everyday grind. I highly recommend this area to anyone looking for a challenging and rewarding backpacking adventure. I'm already planning my next trip!