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DSCF0265.JPG23 viewsWatson Peak above Iron Basin. The bighorn sheep were on the scree slope about one third from the right edge of the frame, and one third down from the top of the frame.Sep 21, 2020
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DSCF0269.JPG25 viewsThis summit, viewed from the eastern end of Iron Basin, is simply labeled “Calkens 11477” on the topo map. From here, the descent to Ocalkens Lake starts gradually…Sep 21, 2020
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DSCF0263.JPG25 viewsDead tree; Iron Basin, 9200’.Sep 21, 2020
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DSCF0252.JPG24 viewsAt 9100’, Iron Basin opens up to the E. While still in the narrower canyon just below, I could see these bighorn sheep on the steep slope to directly ahead to the north. I quickly changed lenses behind a fallen tree. They were already aware of my presence, and started moving west on the steep slope. I counted 14.Sep 21, 2020
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DSCF0249.JPG24 viewsWatson Peak above Iron Basin to the NE. I ended up having to lose some elevation after heading E too soon. I figured I could always stay on the ridge and continue N without losing elevation if I was in error. I quickly realized I was heading toward an unnamed lake at 8900’, and headed back to the NW. It was steep, and there was no advantage in staying on the ridge. I paid a heavy price for this unnecessary diversion later in the day crossing the saddle between WCP9 and D. O. Lee Peak.Sep 21, 2020
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DSCF0248.JPG23 viewsMost of the smoke and haze has cleared out by morning in Iron Basin. I crossed a small stream with running water about 7:30 last night at around 8700’ and decided to camp, uncertain about availability of water ahead. I had entertained thoughts of pushing on to Ocalkens Lake, but that was just not going to happen. I made the right decision. I’ve found it makes more sense to stop a bit earlier, and get started earlier in the morning.Sep 21, 2020
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DSCF0247.JPG24 viewsIt has taken almost two hours since crossing Warm Springs Creek to reach the climb at the mouth of Iron Basin. Watson Peak rises due north. The route becomes steep, with a trail appearing when most needed. It is nice to see water flowing out of Iron Basin, at least for now.Sep 21, 2020
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DSCF0246.JPG27 viewsThe trail is sketchy at best.Sep 21, 2020
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DSCF0245.JPG22 viewsAlong Warm Springs Creek, Watson Peak comes into view, marking the entrance to Iron Basin. Meadows make travel easy, but there are sections with fallen timber, making headway difficult.Sep 21, 2020
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DSCF0244.JPG14 viewsShortly before reaching Warm Springs Creek, a small creek surfaces. This is the first running water I have seen since leaving the trailhead.Sep 21, 2020
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DSCF0243.JPG10 viewsAfter an initial steep descent from the mouth of Strawberry Basin on the north, the terrain below levels out into some nice meadows before steeping again.Sep 21, 2020
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DSCF0242.JPG9 viewsDescending into Strawberry Basin.Sep 21, 2020
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