I started at the Diamond Trailhead at the eastern end of The Mt Misery Trail and hiked 2.5 miles to just west of Sheephead Spring. I left the trail here and walked the ridge southwest, sometimes on old tread, out to the summit of Bald Butte. The ridgeline was easier than the hike out to Halsey Butte which I had done last year about this time as any potentially difficult sections could be easily bypassed. There were some signs of use such as cans and bullet casings, even an old Nalgene bottle, but this is mostly an off piste route.
The ridge drops to a 4700' saddle and ascends the final 700' out to the broad summit that could host a soccer match. Views of Oregon Butte dominate over Trout Creek and much of the southern end of The Blues is visible.
I retraced my steps but hadn't brought enough water for the warm day so took many breaks as the legs started cramping up. Note to self; bring more water than you think you need.
GPS clocked 12.2 miles RT and 4072' of gain.
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