South Spectacle Butte

GETTING THERE

Drive SR 2 east to Coles Corner.  Head north on SR 207 toward Lake Wenatchee, turning right at the southeast end of the lake.  Turn left onto Chiwawa River Road (Forest Road 62) and follow it over 25 miles, passing the Alpine Meadow Campground.  Look for Phelps Creek road branching on the right and follow it about 2.5 miles to the Phelps Creek trailhead.

APPROACH

Hike the Phelps Creek Trail about 3.5 miles to Leroy Creek.  After crossing the creek look for a trail headed up to the right. Follow this steep, dusty trail up to Leroy Basin with good camping (5,400 ft). Continue on the trail leading around the basin and towards the col between Seven Finger Jack and Maude.  Before heading too far uphill, look for a trail junction leading to the right and take it (south) about 1.5 miles to a shoulder below Mount Maude.  Drop to Ice Lakes and camp.

ASCENT ROUTE

From Lower Ice Lake, descend trail to about 6,500 ft and head cross country to the base of the southwest ridge of South Spectacle Butte at about 6,800 ft.  Ascend the ridge crest, passing any obstacles on climber's right (Class 3).  At ~8,100 ft leave the ridge on the right and climb a series of ledges to the southeast corner of the summit block.  Scramble to the summit.

DESCENT ROUTE

Descend the climbing route.

TRIP PROFILE

• Suitable Activities: Climbing
• Climbing Category: Basic Alpine
• Seasons: June, July, August, September
• Weather: View weather forecast

• Difficulty: Basic Alpine Climb
• Length: 15.0 mi
• Elevation Gain: 4,400 ft
• High Point: 8,392 ft

• Land Manager: Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forests
  Glacier Peak Wilderness, Entiat Ranger District (OWNF)
• Parking Permit Required: Northwest Forest Pass
• Recommended Party Size: 4
• Maximum Party Size: 12
• Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12