|

DSCF0505.JPG2 viewsJust past 5 pm, I arrive at Frog Lake, and pause to admire some trail bikes parked near a huge and have a snack. A bow hunter emerges from the tent and we chat. I learn it is over 8 miles to the trail head, and a good part of that is the climb up Red Ridge. I had not looked closely at the map, and assumed it was all downhill! Half an hour later, I am well on my way up the ridge, seeing Frog Lake far below.
|
|

DSCF0421.JPG2 viewsSignpost indicating trail to Observation Peak vicinity of McGown Lakes turnoff.
|
|

DSCF0426.JPG2 views
|
|

DSCF0449.JPG2 viewsThe peaks in the distance rise above Barron Creek. I begin to think we might get a thundershower, but it doesn't materialize.
|
|

DSCF0617.JPG2 viewsDescending switchbacks on the west facing slope to the junction with the main Baron Creek Trail, and the second crossing of the North Fork Baron Creek. I never reached direct sunlight the remainder of the hike, so the temperature was comfortable!
|
|

DSCF0619.JPG2 viewsThis pine reminds me of a giant Bonsai tree. If only the botanist were here!
|
|

DSCF0803.jpg2 viewsIn about three and a half miles, the trail enters the Sawtooth Wilderness. One is informed that a self-issued wilderness permit is required to travel any further.
|
|

DSCF0804.jpg2 viewsIn another quarter mile or so, the trail coming from the upper trail head to the south joins the trail from the lower trail head. The gradient steepens slightly.
|
|

DSCF0805.jpg2 viewsThe outlet to Hell Roaring Lake is reached in roughly five miles from the lower trail head. A log bridge makes crossing the outlet to the south shore of the lake trivial.
|
|

DSCF0806.jpg2 viewsLog congestion just west of Hell Roaring Lake's outlet.
|
|

DSCF0807.jpg2 viewsFinger of Fate rises to the west above Hell Roaring Lake. I understand some of this rock formation was lost in an earthquake two or three years ago. This was the same earthquake that took down some of Baron Spire above the Baron Lakes further north in the Sawtooth range. The technical route to the summit is 9 pitches. The easiest route is 5.8.
|
|

DSCF0809.jpg2 viewsI passed by several granite walls adjacent to the trail that offered good bouldering opportunities that could easily be top-roped.
|
|
3052 files on 255 page(s) |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
215 |  |
 |
 |
 |
|