This is a fun loop with a cross country section starting from the Hooper Diversion Dam going up to Mount Hooper at 12,349 feet and then connects cross country to the PCT/JMT at Seldon Pass. From there it heads south taking you alongside Heart Lake, Sallie Keyes Lakes, then continuing down toward Muir Ranch. Before hitting Muir Ranch you'll take the trail heading towards Florence Lake crossing the south fork of the San Joaquin River. The trail continues around the lake and connects you to the road you drove in on and back up to the Hooper Diversion Dam.
I've also done this route stopping at the east side of Florence Lake where this is a call box and you can get a boat ride across the lake for a small fee which is a fun way to do this route as well.
There are multiple sources of water along the route from Chamberlain Lake below Mt. Hooper, along with some small creeks flowing from Heart Lake just below Seldon pass to Sallie Keyes Lakes as well as water from the San Joaquin River and Florence Lake. The temps in the summer can be warm especially around the Florence Lake trail.
This is a fun and challenging route that will give you some amazing views along the way!
