Nice paved FS road all the way to the TH. It took some time on the trail to get up the Larch elevation with plenty of blowdowns to hurdle and multiple creek crossings. At some points it felt more like walking thru a cow pasture with all the cow patties - although the cattle have been moved out for winter now. The trail on my digital map had me getting up to 8-mile ridge in a rather steep direction (but on the way back I followed the more natural path of less steep contours). Either way, I would say off trail navigation is necessary. The summit was nice and wide and offered great views of the area. Bandit did great but had to take a nap at lunchtime.
3 stars (-1 for trail disappearing, -1 cow patties)
Last year I did Burch Mtn from Billie Goat pass and IMO that way is better. However, I did take out quite a few blowdowns with my folding-saw this time (but only when I was sure that I was on the trail), so the trail is better than when I found it.
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