Mount Howard & Mount Mastiff

Due to rain, we changed a trip destination from Baring to Howard via the Rock Mountain trailhead. With 6000' of gain (due to ups and downs), it turned out to be a good choice. We did not ascend Mastiff at all. Next time I lead Howard & Mastiff, I am going to do this as a car shuttle between the two trailheads. The above-timberline area between Rock Lake and Crescent Lake is very attractive. If the weather is perfect and the party is very strong, another nice alternative is to hike up Rock Mountain along the way.