June 2001 

Seven miles from the trailhead, we reach Ediza Lake.  If this is not one of the most beautiful lakes in the Sierra, then I definitely need to hike more.  The Minarets rise up directly behind the lake, and Volcanic Ridge drops in from the left to complete the panorama.

Another view of the Minarets from Ediza Lake

The most efficient way to get to the base of Mt. Ritter is to hike around the north side of Ediza Lake.  To do this, you must (unless the water level is very low) leave the main trail before the wooden bridge that crosses Shadow Creek (about 200 yards below the outlet of Ediza Lake), and instead follow a rough use trail on the north side of the creek.  Once you reach the lake itself, you have to boulder hop for awhile until you reach the trees and the camping area beyond.  This is not too difficult, but can be a pain with a full pack (which I am carrying here).

We climbed up above the lake and pitched our tents on a rocky bench with a view of the Minarets.  We then donned our packs and headed for the base of the mountain to begin the climb proper.  Because we didn't bring bear canisters (too damn heavy), we carried our food with us up the mountain (too damn heavy...).  Because we were leaving early the next day, we brought just enough food for dinner to avoid the bear/food storage issue.  Besides, why would you eat a crappy backcountry breakfast when you can gorge on a Texan Omelette and blueberry pancakes at the Stove in Mammoth Lakes?

From our campsite, we quickly climbed above treeline and were rewarded with this incredible view of Ritter and Banner and the saddle between the two.  Notice the snowchute heading up to the right in between the peaks.  This is the normal route to ascend Banner Peak.  Next time for sure... 

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