Today I finally got to put a checkmark next to one that has been on the list for a long time. I try to avoid these popular hikes during peak season and today really couldn't have worked out better.
There are plenty of comments about the road ranging from not that bad to terrible. I would say it's pretty bad but take it slow with a high clearance vehicle and you'll make it. One sedan in the lot.
I arrived at 7:45 and there were maybe 15 vehicles, most of which were backpackers. The trail never seemed very busy today.
The trail was in excellent condition all the up to the lookout. Around the area of the lookout it's pretty easy to lose the trail and end up boulder hopping, but it soon reappears. Just stunning views as soon as you leave the forest. The fall colors were amazing!
From the lookout I didn't know that the peak I was looking at was Hidden Lake Peaks but it looked climeable and I could tell it would offer better views so off I went. I probably followed the ridge a little more than I should have. Staying slightly lower on the left side would have been better. There are occasional cairns to help. It's all class 2/3 scrambling with a few exposed spots especially if you go all the way to the end. It was fun and the view was indeed better. From here I dropped straight down the basin, boulder hopping most of the way until intersecting with the main trail. This didn't save much if any time so I would probably just go back the way I came if doing it again. Easy hike out the rest of the way. Absolutely beautiful hike!
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