In the writing world, the “essay” was defined by its inventor as an “attempt,” and this will be an attempt to reach Melissa Basin — and return — in one day. The hike begins at the Ross Creek Cedars and follows Trail #142 to 48-hour Creek. From there, bushwhacking is required. Return by the same route. If you are in condition for this hike, you will never regret it. Distance: 15 miles round trip. Elevation gain: 3300 feet (2700 in the 2 miles from Ross Creek to Melissa Basin) Maximum group size: 8