Arrived at TH parking lot around 8:15 and was the only vehicle in the parking lot. I read reports that you need a high clearance vehicle to make it to this trailhead - not true. I drive a Prius and while there were some pot holes and dips they were easily navigable and I did not bonk my undercarriage at all.
First 5 miles out were shaded, cool, and wonderful. We saw a deer, multiple grouse, so many butterflies, and lots of wildflowers. The flowers are a little past peak at the moment. You hike alongside the creek for much of this and we used it to cool off just before reaching the pass. We used AllTrails to navigate but their mileage is off. It’s 4 miles to the trail junction (marked on signage) and then 2 and some change to the peak.
Once you pass the campsites in the meadow and final creek access, the trail opens up to an exposed, moon-like landscape. I think this is when the hike actually becomes more challenging and you start to feel the elevation. At the pass, there are beautiful views of the Enchantments. Take the right and begin heading up the saddle to the peak. Very steep, loose rock sections that require careful foot placement. I never felt unsafe but I hate hiking sections like this. The last mile was pretty slow going and I was grateful for my trekking poles.
Views from the top are phenomenal. Lots of bugs here - mostly bees and some biting flies. No mosquitoes. We ate a quick lunch in the shade and made a careful descent back to the pass. The hike out was hot. Would recommend bringing a ton of water or a filter with you on this one. We underestimated temps and were fairly uncomfortable on the hike out wishing we’d brought more water (we each had 2.5 L). We only saw a single mountain biker the entire time.
TL;DR Longer hike than indicated on AllTrails (mileage here is correct). Steep ascent after the saddle with loose rock and buggy at the peak. Hot, bring plenty of water.
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