Evolution lake and the hermit, John Muir Trail

On the John Muir Trail, Evolution Valley is one of the most beautiful parts in Kings Canyon National Park. The summits along the Evolution Valley are named after experts in the theory of evolution. Evolution lake in the valley is a good camping spot as well. The Evolution Basin has multiple tall peaks that are popular to climbers. The Hermit, pictured in this photograph, with the lake in the foreground is one such peak. The Hermit is 12,328 feet tall and one of the most recognizable peaks in the area.

July in the Ansel Adams Wilderness, and the afternoon clouds were building over Thousand Island Lake. The granite slopes surrounding the lake were dotted with evergreens, and the water was calm enough to reflect the sky.

Thousand Island Lake, California · 2021