Three Way Peak

On 6/28/2015, we scrambled Threeway Peak (Beckey's book has it as one word) via Crystal Lake. This involves more elevation gain than starting at Chinook Pass, but has the advantage of some great views of the peak from the lake and the route above the lake; from this angle, the remarkable hole through the summit is quite visible. On this occasion, another nice feature of going via Crystal Lake was the floral display, especially lots of louseworts (both bird's beak, and elephant's head).

We took the path leading up from the lake, and where it turned toward the south, we took a short cut across Threeway's south ridge and dropped to the PCT. It's fairly obvious where to leave the PCT to gain the east ridge; expect some loose rock, and be aware that anything you dislodge could be a danger to hikers below. If you angle to the right you avoid some of the loosest rock. Once on the ridge, just follow it westward. There's an exposed but easy step to reach the highest point; it's not exposed enough to justify a T5 rating.

The weather was very warm, but as the day progressed, there were enough clouds and breezes to keep it from being too unpleasant. All in all, it was a very enjoyable trip.