Another SHR – JMT loop that could be nice is a loop from Piute Pass through the Bear Lakes to Lake Italy and then back via JMT and Piute Pass trail. An ascent of Feather Peak by its SW ridge would be a nice exclamation point on the journey. It’s a little longer than the other loops though; perhaps close to 70 miles (30 miles XC, 40 miles trail). It looks like the JMT may be fairly flat on the return, however.

One more idea Leor — Devil’s Crag #1. Remote, high, and difficult. 10k gain, 35+ miles, and difficult 4th class climbing to gain the summit. A classic for running alpinism?

I like the loops using the Sierra High Route and JMT. Bench Canyon and Cirque Crest would be nice that way for sure.

Here’s one that’s been done a few times lately: Cottonwood Lakes to Shepherd’s Pass Trail, climbing all the 14ers on the way!

I also wonder about the Great Western Divide. Lots of remote, high peaks up there. What about a traverse of its crest? Could be technical. Something that could be quite wild would be to make loop via the Sierra crest (Whitney to University — roughly at least) and return via the Great Western Divide. Might take two days…

Here’s another thing I was thinking about recently: what’s the fastest way up Williamson? Is it the Long Twisting Rib, which is more direct but more difficult, with bushwhacking and steep scree? Or is if faster via Shepherd’s Pass?

Thanks for the stimulating post and hearty food for thought! Great ideas here!