Old Scab is a 6608' summit northeast of Bumping Lake and can be accessed from the top or bottom of The Soda Springs Trail #975. FR 1600 from Nile Rd is the way to the top end of this trail that starts at 5880.' Starting at the bottom from the Bumping Rd is at 3100.' FR 1600 is for vehicles with good clearance only the last few miles.
The hike starts downward for about 300' passing near but not by Flat Iron Lake, until the SE ridge of Old Scab is visible. I left the trail at about 1 mile at the 5650' point to gain the SE ridge which is an easy hike up initially through open forest and then onto grassy slopes. There is a little scrambling near the summit but no exposure. Careful with the big slabby rocks near the top as some of them are loose and ready to slide at the lightest touch as I found out.
The summit has great views of the surroundings including Nelson Ridge, Bumping Lake and of course the majestic Rainier.
I retraced my steps and returned to my car for the bumpy 15 mile drive down to the Nile Road.
Some active logging is occurring lower down on 1600 so watch for trucks.
4 miles RT and 1400' gain.
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