Thought we would try our hand at a trip up Rock Mountain even though there are no trip reports from this season. We quickly found out this was for good reason.
We arrived at around 8 am to a fully empty parking lot that remained empty for the entire day. Our goal was to beat the worst of the heat, which was definitely helpful as during the descent, the exposure of the switchbacks was very severe.
The switchbacks are definitely very steep which is manageable except for a few sections with very loose dirt that makes it slightly slick. The trail itself is quite overgrown on the lower half — it’s very clear not many people have hiked it recently.
We made it near the summit, but not quite all the way due to the snowfields. Though melting quickly, it’s probably best to try this one in early July. On our way down, some of the snowfields made it difficult to find the trail and we did a lot of backtracking. We also had microspikes which are definitely necessary at this point in time. The mosquitoes were also extremely bad in the snow covered areas, as the rapid melt contributed to a lot of standing water.
The views were beautiful regardless! Having done this hike a couple years ago later in the season, it’s definitely gorgeous at the summit! Just give it a few weeks :)
Comments
Greg Nieminen on Rock Mountain via Rock Lake
My son still gives me trouble about this hike! We did it at a similar stage a few years ago and had to break out the head nets for the bugs up nearer the saddle. I went much later in the season by myself and really enjoyed it; although it is quite a climb. Those lower switchbacks are a bit scary here and there; I like to have some trees around in case I slip!
Posted by:
Greg Nieminen on Jun 08, 2025 06:24 PM
Don Gerald on Rock Mountain via Rock Lake
Good report, and I agree with Greg. The Snowy Creek approach, though, is far more pleasant. Definitely give it a try if you haven't already. The mosquitoes, though, are still atrocious until about mid-August.
Posted by:
Don Gerald on Jun 08, 2025 08:22 PM