Alpine Scramble - McClellan Butte

We took the longer route starting at the lower McClellan Butte Trailhead (I-90 exit 42) to add some conditioning. This was mostly a pleasant trail hike followed by a short, exposed rock scramble at the summit. Arrived at 7:30am on a Sunday with ample parking. Weather was overcast with patchy fog most of the day until we broke out near the summit above a sea of white clouds. We had 2 students and one recent graduate.

The rock scramble is not technically difficult, just very exposed. The rock was dry and we could see an obvious worn route with remnants of pipe stands. The most difficult part is at the beginning. About half-way up, it becomes more of a walk-up trail. The rock is sold with good hand and foot holds. We took our time, and everyone did really well, gaining confidence in the experience.

The summit register was completely full; needs a new one. We spoke with an old-time Mountaineers scramble leader who advised us that Garcia Road is in decent shape. We enjoyed watching his dogs tackle the peak with ease. Delicious huckleberries along the way. Back to cars at 3pm. Really fun trip with a great group of scramblers!

Stats: 10.9 miles, 3810' gain