The trail begins with a gentle ascent out of the Wolverton parking lot.
Once you reach Panther Gap, marvel at the trail's first sweeping vista. Castle Rocks come into full view.
After Panther Gap, the trial meanders in and out of incredible views.
If you tackle this trail in late spring/early summer, the wildflowers put on a fabulous show.
At the 5-mile mark, you'll hit a junction with a unique rock face greeting you. Turn left and begin up Alta Peak.
Alpine streams crisscross the trail as you continue climbing.
Once you get above 10,500 feet, gnarled foxtail pines dominate the landscape.
The view looking out over Pear Lake and the Sierra Nevada are awe-inspiring.
After making your way back down the mountain, a 1-mile hike takes you to the flora and views of Alta Meadow.
Alta Meadow has plenty of room for backcountry campers, though some sites have better views than others.
Alta is the perfect spot to watch the sun rise and set over the Great Western Divide.
The wildflowers and the sunsets make this a magical backpacking excursion.