High Sierra Base Camp Backpacking Trip Ideas Updated 12/28/2022 1. Big McGee Lake and Red Slate Mountain John Muir Wilderness. Start at McGee Creek trailhead 8412' 5.3 mi +2215' -63' to Big McGee Lake at 10476' Day hike to Red Slate Mtn 13163' class 2 "big pile of rubble" from McGee Pass 4 mi round trip +2687' 2. Little Lakes Valley and Mounts Abbot, Mills and Dade John Muir Wilderness. Either come in from Rock Creek or over Morgan Pass from Pine Creek or shuttle.