Finally doing the tram, what to see?

[David W]

I'm a regular on and off camping/exploring at Toro, never have done the tram. Finally taking the family Saturday, anything special we should look for?

Also, I've thought about doing C2C backwards, tram up, hike down. Thoughts?

Thanks

[zippetydude]

This time of year, the trails are largely obscured by snow, so you could end up wandering around and getting lost if you've never been up there before. I'd say the view from up there makes it a worthwhile experience no matter what. You could explore Long Valley, which is just below the tram, without any fear of getting lost. Going down the trail (the portion from the museum up to the upper tram is called Skyline) is very steep and will take a few hours, but if you're already an avid hiker and can find the trail at the top it is a possibility. If you know someone who has done Skyline and would be willing to take the trail down with you, that would be ideal. Hope you have a good experience on this your first trip!

z

[cynthia23]

Don't go down Skyline. Believe it or not it is actually far more dangerous to go down it than to go up, and there have been a lot of rescues of novices who tried going down, all from exhaustion. It is extremely strenuous, even downhill, and the problem is, if you bonk midway, there is no option but to call for a rescue, because what are you going to do at that point? Turn around and go back up? If you are too exhausted to continue going downhill, you will definitely be too exhausted to go up.

Always go up Skyline the first time, never down.

[David W]

Thanks! I'll try to bring back some good pics.

I'll look to hook up with a pro when hiking time comes, I have a buddy who's a hardcore hiker. I gotta work on endurance, but I'm "only" 33, and very agile/surefooted, etc.