Backpacking Crabtree Trail, Emigrant Wilderness

Fourth of July Weekend 2016, we went on a 3 day backpacking trip to the beautiful Emigrant Wilderness area of Stanislaus National Forest. A little less than 2 hours from Manteca, CA, Emigrant Wilderness is a great option for those wanting to get away from the hustle and bustle of the Bay Area.

Almost 1/2 mile in from the trailhead and doing lots of climbing.

Crabtree Trail is accessible for those wanting to day hike and backpack. Nearby attractions include Dodge Ridge and Pinecrest Lake Resort. To access the trailhead, park at the dead end of Crabtree Road where there is a large parking lot. On weekends, expect the parking lot to be full. For those backpacking, make sure you get your permits at the Summit Ranger District located on Highway 108.

Trail views.

Double check all your gear! Most importantly, make sure you have your essentials:

• water (at least half your body weight in ounces)
• sun protection
• layers of clothes
• food
• map

For those that are backpacking, I recommend the following essentials list:

• backpack (make sure it fits you, the weight should be on your hips)
• functioning water filter
• tent or hammock
• sleeping bag
• water bladder or bottle
• hiking shoes or boots
•  wool socks (pack an extra pair; they also function as gloves if it gets cold at night!)
• hiking appropriate shorts or pants
• dry fit shirt or tank top
• dry fit long sleeve
• fleece or jacket
• underwear (I recommend dry fit/sports underwear)
• beanie
• hat
• sunglasses
• mosquito repellent (they are brutal up there!)
• sunscreen
• pocket knife or multi-tool
• headlamp
• portable stove
• extra fuel (just in case!)
• lighter for stove
• pot
• spork (good durable ones can be found at REI)
• dehydrated food – make sure you have enough for your trip, bring an extra just in case (Beef Stroganoff is my favorite!)
• snacks
• extra zip lock bags (these come in so handy!)
• toilet paper, shovel, zip lock bag to pack out your TP (practice pack in, pack out!)
• map
• batteries
• bear canister
• rope

Optional:

• camera
• sleeping pad
• bathing suit
• camp shoes (flip flops, slides, sandals)
• fishing pole and bait
• lightweight portable chair
• extra flashlight
• trekking poles
• watch

For those that will be doing a shorter or longer backpacking trip, adjust the list to fit y0ur needs and group size. Ensure everyone shares the load!

View on top of the rocks near our campsite.

Camp Lake is perfect for a day hike location, lunch spot and swimming! The water is cool and beautiful. For those wanting a more difficult hike, follow the trail and continue to Bear Lake or the 16 mile loop to Piute and back to the Crabtree Trailhead.

Be prepared for good trail climbing and spectacular views! To be honest,  I can’t weight to go back. Here’s the GoPro video I put together of our trip: Emigrant Wilderness Backpacking Trip July 2016.

Happy Adventures!