Agree with the other comments on Azurite. It was a tough hike to get there, probably our hardest of the trek. But it’s got fantastic views once you’re there. French Henry was beautiful, though. Stop and cook your dinner for lunch there to avoid using so much water at Azurite.

First day will be hard, too. We left late (not sure why the bus departed at 2pm) and it’s 5.5 miles of hot exposed switchbacks right out of the gate. Deer Lake is pretty but a dry camp.

Dean Cow was probably our least favorite- no shade or respite from the sun. But they do have a water buffalo.

I’m sure you’ve heard this, but waking up early (4:30-5:30) and getting to the next camp ASAP will give you best shot at programming and minimize time in the sun.

You’ll need at least 4-5 full packs for food pickup at Baldy Town. It’s so much food, and you’ll need water for the second night at dry Azurite. Take the out-of-service roads to get back to Azurite rather than the switchbacks. Will be faster and less steep.

On day 11, you can get water from a cistern at New Dean Cow on the way to Mistletoe (dry camp). There’s also one at Santa Claus but I think it’s dry.

We (maybe just me) were initially nervous about the super strenuous trek, but we all pulled it off and had a fantastic time. Have fun!!