Hiking Alone in Kings Canyon Backcountry, California: Ionian Basin Loop | No Talking

I backpacked alone in Kings Canyon national park (part of the Sierra Nevada mountains) September 4-11 2024. The main destination of my route was Ionian Basin.

Check out my next video featuring Sequoia NP:
   • Hiking Alone in Sequoia-Kings Backcou...  

About the Route:

I designed this 53 mile figure-8 loop as the ultimate alternative to the popular North Lake - South Lake loop. After leaving the JMT at Wanda Lake, I didn't see a single person. Ionian basin is mountaineering terrain and Alpine Col is made of car sized talus, those were the most difficult sections. Lamarck Col, while easier at class 2, still requires careful navigation. Its south side is mostly a walk-up, but snow often lingers on the north side, even late in the season.

Disclaimers:

This video is for the purpose of entertainment and inspiration only, it is not a guide or trip report. Always research terrain and weather conditions, carry proper equipment, and prioritize safety. Explore responsibly and at your own risk.

  / alisha.maddy  

Music:

1. The Heartlands by Dreyma
2. Relaxing Nylon Guitar Music by JASA Productions
3. Edge of Silence by Dreyma
4. Spiritual Viking Music by JASA Productions
5. Peaceful Landscape Music by JASA Productions
6. Ysmir by Dreyma
7. We Trust by Johnannes Bornlof
8. Daybreak by Dreyma
9. Light of Aetherius by Dreyma
10. The Forgotten by JASA Productions

Timestamps:
00:00 Day 1 - Piute Pass
1:50 Day 2 - Darwin Bench
4:31 Day 3 - Evolution Valley
7:45 Day 4 - Davis Lake
12:05 Day 5 - Ionian Basin
16:24 Day 6 - Sapphire Lake
19:18 Day 7 - Lamarck Col
22:12 Day 8 - North Lake Trailhead
22:56 Conclusion

Shot on Sonya7rIII, Sony G F4 24-105mm, and iPhone 15 pro max