Looking for 3-night mid-Sierras backpack

“I'm from Vermont and have 4 days/3 nights (Aug 18-21) for backpacking in the Sierras. I'm starting from San Jose area, so thinking Yosemite, but would consider further. No permits yet. I'd like some high elevation hiking, would love a good high summit (day hike or en route), would like more remote, less people, but not looking for isolation. I've hiked Kings Canyon years ago - loved it. Any recommendations out there?
Also would consider hiking partners if anyone's interested.
-- Steve”

“How tight is your schedule? Can you travel to/from the trailhead the day before & after. Are you driving or need public transportation?”

“Go to Chain Lakes area. Start at Chiquito Pass and hike to Chain Lakes (7 miles). Pack up and climb Gale Peak overlooking Chain and Breeze Lakes. Make an early day of it at Breeze Lake. Then Climb over Fernandez Pass and visit Rutherford Lakes in the Ansel Adams Wilderness. Come back out. Only a 14 mile hump. No quota as it starts outside of Yosemite in NF by Oakhurst. Get permit at NFS office.”

“toejam: I have most of the 4 days for hiking, starting mid-morning day 1, hiking out day 4. I plan to rent a car, so need to park somewhere.

sandyann: sounds like what I'm looking for, a couple passes and peaks, and not permit hassles. I'll check it out, thanks for the detail.”

“Use Quartz Mountain TH. I believe there might be a few routes to get there but none paved. Be aware the Chiquito Pass is actually slightly downhill from the TH. But you can do a loop and on top of Fernandez you can do Red Peak and other passes. Good Luck!”

“Sandy is the queen of Yosemite.”

“Hahaha Toejam! Chiquito Pass isn't in Yosemite but once you get to Chain Lakes you are. It's an awesome trip. Sierra National Forest, Yosemite, and Ansel Adams. If you could toss in Hoover Wilderness all in one trip I don't think it could get any better!”