I'm experienced I have backpacked solo in Desolation, Trinity and Redwoods up in Humboldt. My wife did 1-2 trips many years ago. Next weekend my sons boy scout troop is going to Point Reyes but I think they are going 6 miles. Thats about what Hetch Hetchy was, not good, too far for him. Donner Lake is not far but theres snow there still. I live close to Folsom went there once, I wont go there anymore. You do know its close to a federal Penn right?