Whenever I headed east towards Leavenworth area, I always passed the rock mountain trailhead sign on Hwy 2. Decided to go for it today after reading a couple of trip reports.
Started at around 10 AM which was super late considering this trail was mostly exposed to the sun. Trail was mostly dry, a bit brushy in places and I counted 3 old blowdowns to go over and under. Lots of wildflowers bloomed along the trail. It was scorching hot to the point that I was exhausted and almost finished my 3L water when I was above the treeline. Those 90ish switchbacks felt like switchbacks inferno.
Good thing I was able to get more water from the trail at around 5,900ft as snow was melting fast and water was literally flowing down the trail.
Snow became more consistent after 5,900ft. I tried my best to stay on the summer trail but decided to go straight up on certain sections as snow was pretty decent for kicking steps.
Although there were still lingering snow and cornices on the ridge, the summit was snow free. Rock lake looked almost thawed and the view of surrounding peaks was gorgeous. Only met 1 person on the trail all day and I had the summit to myself.
Took me a little over 6 hours to do this hike. 4 hours up and 2 hours down. Because of the heat, I think this trail is better to do in the spring or in the fall, especially when the fall colors pop out.
Brought ice axe, spikes, helmet and poles and used only poles.
Stats: 8.3mi RT, 6:18 total time
Comments