Idaho Exposure

Hiking, Climbing, Backpacking, Snowshoeing, Backcountry Skiing. Photos by Thomas Oetzell; idahoexposure.com

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IMG_6732.JPG7 viewsFortunately, it was pleasantly cool. The ascent to the pass went quickly.
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IMG_6738.JPG7 viewsWe expected to see elk here, but did not expect to see bluebirds. The Mountain Bluebird is Idaho's state bird, found in higher elevations in open meadows in coniferous forests. We saw the birds hover in mid-air, hawking for insects. Grasshoppers, a dietary favorite, were present.
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IMG_6740.JPG7 viewsCastle Peak above a stand of conifers.
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IMG_6745.JPG7 viewsThe view northeast climbing to the 10,000' pass that leads to Chamberlain Basin.
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IMG_6786.JPG7 viewsWashington Lake! I wash my feet and change socks for the final 2.5 miles to the car. Next time I will consider a direct cross country route over the saddle directly west of the lake to the upper Chamberlain Lake (9849').
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IMG_6785.JPG7 viewsThe pass is a superb place for lunch, with great views and shade.
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IMG_6215.JPG7 viewsGrasses in the flooded meadow west of Stanley Lake.
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IMG_6216.JPG7 viewsHenry's Fork of the Snake River; downstream from Upper Coffee Pot Campground.
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IMG_6975.JPG7 viewsThe highest two lakes in Four Lakes Basin.
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IMG_7500.JPG7 viewsTired, and armed with an antiquated topo, we miss the turnoff to Birdbill Lake at a saddle on Fishfin Ridge, and descend to Wilson Lake.
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