Alpine Scramble - Old Desolate

Various park and rides to accommodate attendees, then 6AM at the White River Ranger Station.

A four day alpinist’s paradise that begins and ends at Sunrise.  The first day sees us through Berkeley Park and Grand Park, before dropping to cross the West Fork of the White River.  After quick visit to Van Horn falls, we ascend to Windy Gap before reaching our camp at the col between Sluiskin Chief and Sluiskin Squaw (with gorgeous views of Willis Wall, including thundering ice avalanches).  Our second day we descend into Vernal Park, and besides roaming here and there, will visit Crescent Mountain as well as Old Desolate (southern summit).  Day three we will ascend the north summit of Old Desolate, then exit Vernal Park to reach our 3rd night’s camp near Mineral Mountain.  After summiting Mineral Mountain the following morning, we will enjoy a leisurely swim in Mystic Lake before slogging along the Wonderland Trail until able to travel cross country (from Granite Creek Camp) to the summit of 2nd Burroughs.  Finally we will hike past Shadow Lake to reach our cars at Sunrise.  Respective elevation gains for each day (from 1st through 4th day) are 4200’, 1800’, 2300’, and 3300’, carrying overnight packs most of the time (except for day 2). Photos from past trips can be seen here.