The “plans” for the day were to make our way back into Mammoth to grab breakfast and do a bit of hiking, then try and find a campsite near one of the hot springs.

Time to leave one of the radest campsites behind…

Our choice for breakfast was Basecamp, but unfortunately they were cash only that morning for whatever reason. What felt like a marathon to find cash-back or an ATM, breakfast was eventually served and well worth the efforts. Afterwards, we drove to the Duck Lake trailhead but no parking pushed up towards Horseshoe Lake where we made the hike to see McCloud Lake, Twin Falls and the surrounding area.

Back to the vehicles, a well deserved beer and food was in order. Ended up at Mammoth Brewing Company where the wait was long, but the reward was once again worth it. Ended up getting a later start on trying to find a spot near the springs so we knew options were going to be limited. We pressed on and made our way to see what was available on a holiday weekend.

Unfortunately all the springs and camping spots were packed. Pulling up my maps, we headed north in search of a decent spot to stay the night but everything I had marked was occupied. This pushed us out into territory that I haven’t worked on yet which resulted in not finding a camp until well into the night.

Since Bravo and Ashley had to leave first thing in the morning (bummer!),we quickly packed up camp and made the journey to the 395 so we could say our farewells. Sure is hard to split ways with great friends on a rad adventure. They went their way and we went ours – and then their was one…

Candace and I didn’t have any plans for the day and were up in the air on what to do. Hungry and still trying to wake up, drove back into Mammoth and had breakfast at Toomy’s where we decided to go on another hike since we had such a great time the day before. Sherwin Lakes would be our destination this time around.

When we arrived at the trailhead, to no surprise parking was full so we ended up having to back down and squeeze into a offshoot a ways down the road. Although a bit busy on the trail, it was a nice hike with some postcard worthy views once at the top.

Ol’ Skampy just left of center

Walking back to the truck after such a great hike we figured it’d be worth a shot to try and find room at one of the hot springs. Striking out at the main and easily accessible tubs, we ended up getting lucky at Sherpard’s Hot Spring almost having it all to ourselves for a decent amount of time before another group arrived – marking our time to get heading towards camp for the night.

A place I’ve been wanted to camp at for quite some time was calling my name, so off we went towards Mono Lake. Back across the 395, through the woods and over the hills we made our way towards Mono to spend our last night in the Eastern Sierra’s.

Mono Lake off in the distance

The trail dropped us out by Mono Mills so we stopped to take a look. Ended up being a really cool exhibit with tons of old pictures and information, not only of the old mill that was once there, but of the surrounding areas as well.

Short distance away would be our home for the night. Complete with killer view, soft breeze and about perfect temperature. No complaints. Candace made a delicious dinner and not long after we ended up crashing for the night.

Bummed no astro shot to finish the trip off but gives me a reason to come back!

The day no one looks forward to. When and fun and peace of mind come to an end. When the thoughts of life’s responsibilities start creeping back into your head. We packed up and got on the road early to get home with time to unpack and unwind.

First trip with Skampy was a success and a real eye opener. I’d have to say it far exceeded my expectations in just about every aspect and haven’t even had the time to dial it in yet. It made this trip so easy and enjoyable Candace and I didn’t want to come back home and wished we could just continue exploring. Guess we’ll have to get back out there asap.

Until next time!