Jun 20, 2023
Handful of shots from my journey...
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Handful of shots from my journey...
Avalanche Kills Snowmobiler In Cabin Creek On Sage Peak In The Madison Range Of Montana
Madison Range, Montana – On Tuesday, January 2, 2018 a snowmobiler was killed in Cabin Creek on the west side of Sage Peak in the Madison Range roughly 19 miles north of West Yellowstone, Montana. Montana Flag | Pixabay Image The rider was in a group of 6 when the avalanche occurred. According to MTAvalanche.com, the group found unstable results and “opted not to highmark, deciding instead to…
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Avalanche Kills Skier On Imp Peak In Madison Range In SW Montana
Madison Range, Montana – On Saturday, October 7, 2017 a backcountry skier was caught, buried, and killed in an avalanche while approaching the North Couloir on Imp Peak in the Taylor Hilgard Unit of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness in the Southern Madison Range of SW Montana. Two skiers were caught in the avalanche. One was fully buried and one was partially buried. Gallatin County Search and Rescue…
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Hiking To No Man Lake In Montana’s Madison Range
Location: No Man Lake, Taylor Hilgard Unit, Lee Metcalf Wilderness, Madison Range, Montana Type: Out and Back Rating: Grade II Class 2 Trailhead: Indian Creek Trailhead – 6075′ Distance: 20 miles round trip Time: 6 to 12 hours round trip No Man Lake Elevation: 9,188′ Total Vertical: 3750′ Lat/Long: 45 4.1879 N / 111 29.3614 W Maps: No Man Peak, Koch Peak
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No Man Lake is a dammed reservoir/alpine lake in the Taylor Hilgard unit of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness in the Madison Range of Montana. Sitting at 9,188′ in the cirque to the east of No Man Peak, No Man Lake is a remote mountain lake that’s well worth the hike to access it.
No Man Lake
There is very little information available about No Man Lake, so hiking up there was a bit of an adventure – especially after going big on Hilgard Peak the day before. But that’s what makes the mountains fun.
Bright and early on an August morning, Jeremy Wood and I decided it would be wise to drive around the Madison Range and hike to No Man Lake. We turned off of Highway 287 south of Ennis and rumbled down the dirt road toward the Indian Creek Trailhead as the sun began to crest over the Madison Range.
Heading Toward Indian Creek
We pulled into the large Indian Creek Trailhead parking lot at 6078′ and parked the van. It is not located in the same place that most maps mark it – most likely due to private land easements in the area. We geared up, used the outhouse at the parking area, and hit the trail. Sticking to the trail across the private land, we gained a bit of elevation, crossed a field, went through a gate, and dropped down to a road that parallels Indian Creek. We soon crossed the creek on a bridge and walked through the grassy yard of the Wonder Ranch.
Wonder Ranch Property Easement
Shortly after passing the Wonder Ranch we hit the Beaverhead Deerlodge National Forest Boundary and then in a hop skip and a jump we entered the Lee Metcalf Wilderness. The well trodden trail #328 parallels Indian Creek until it crossed the creek on a bridge at 6312′.
Entering the Beaverhead National Forest
After this bridge, the mellow trail continues to follow the creek and roll along the terrain through open forests and scenic meadows. Large peaks tower overhead to the north. It’s stunning terrain. Walking east into the rising sun gave the forests a surreal feel as we cruised along the trail.
Indian Creek
A mellow trail through meadows and forests
Cool mountains along the route
There were a surprising number of elaborate bridges along the trail – not something one usually expects in a wilderness area. But it kept our socks dry so it made us happy. After 4.5 miles and 925′ of gain we reached an overlook that dropped steeply down to a beautiful waterfall that plummeted out of No Man Creek. It must have been 100′ tall.
No Man Creek Waterfall
Trail #328 continues onwards and we kept moving. About a mile after the falls we came to an unmarked trail split at 7050′ and roughly 5.2 miles. After scratching our heads and wondering if this was our turn off. We decided to hoof it up the steep trail and came to a cool overlook that gazes up No Man Creek and down Indian Creek. The trail seemed more apparent here and based on GAIA GPS we knew we were now on Trail 329 that parallels No Man Creek through the forests.
An Unmarked Trail Split – Go Right
Looking west down Indian Creek
Looking Up No Man Creek
This is where the adventure really began. Due to reasons unknown to us, there were hundreds of downed trees that had fallen across the trail. Literally hundreds of large obstacles that we had to climb up, tip toe along, scoot under, or bushwhack around. The worst of it was over by the time we crossed No Man Creek around 7800′.
Miles of bushwhacking over downed trees
No man Creek Crossing
After crossing No Man Creek, we continued slowly working up the trail navigating around tree obstacles. Eventually the trail started to switchback up and then finally mellowed out as we approached No Man Lake at 9188′. We reached No Man Lake in 4.5 hours, 9.75 miles, and 3575′. If the trail had been in good shape I think we could have easily shaved an hour off of that time. In the back of our heads we knew we had to go back through the land where dead trees go to die to get out of here, but in the meantime we were in a stunning locale.
No Man Lake with No Man Peak In Background To Right
No Man Lake is definitely a dammed reservoir. Why is it dammed? I have no idea. A rock dam on the east side keeps the water in place. Decaying cement structures are built nearby and there are a few items (sledges, horseshoes, etc) from a different time scattered around the place. There are plenty of amazing places to camp too.
It’s a dammed reservoir!
Now, our goal wasn’t really just hiking to No Man Lake. Our goal was to climb No Man Peak. We carefully rock hopped around the southern side of the lake and worked our way up toward the peak. At about 10,000′ we stopped for water and decided that today wasn’t the day to summit the peak for a variety of reasons. Instead we skirted around the northern end of No Man Lake, crossed the rock dam, and made our way back to Trail #329.
Skirting The Rocky Boulders To the South of No Man Lake
No Man Lake with No Man Ridge In Background
No Man Peak
No Man Lake Montana
No Man Lake
As we headed back down the trail, we caught stunning views of No Man Ridge, Koch Peak, Sawtooth Ridge, and even the Sphinx. Such an amazing zone. Luckily, we’ll be back to tag No Man Peak soon.
Koch Peak in distance and the start of Sawtooth Ridge
Sawtooth Ridge
No Man Ridge
Our round trip covered just over 21.3 miles, 10.25 hours, and 5200′. If you just go to the No Man Lake and back the stats would be about 19.5 miles, 3750′, and around 9 hours – just guessing on that though.
View route for hiking to No Man Lake in Montana on HillMap:
Additional photos from hiking to No Man Lake in Montana:
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Heading Toward Indian Creek
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The Indian Creek Trailhead and Parking Area
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Wonder Ranch Property Easement
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Entering the Beaverhead National Forest
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Indian Creek
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A mellow trail through meadows and forests
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Cool mountains along the route
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No Man Creek Waterfall
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An Unmarked Trail Split – Go Right
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Looking Up No Man Creek
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Looking west down Indian Creek
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Miles of bushwhacking over downed trees
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A small meadow with a campsite before crossing No Man Creek
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No man Creek Crossing
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No Man Ridge
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No Man Lake with No Man Peak In Background To Right
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No Man Peak
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No Man Lake
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Skirting The Rocky Boulders To the South of No Man Lake
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No Man Lake with No Man Ridge In Background
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No Man Peak
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No Man Lake
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No Man Lake Montana
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It’s a dammed reservoir!
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Koch Peak in distance and the start of Sawtooth Ridge
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Sawtooth Ridge
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No Man Ridge
This trip report for hiking to No Man Lake in Montana’s Madison Range is from August 30, 2016.
#amountainjourney #madisonrange #montana #eternalstoke
TR: No Man Lake, 9188', Madison Range, Montana Hiking To No Man Lake In Montana's Madison Range Location: No Man Lake, Taylor Hilgard Unit, Lee Metcalf Wilderness, Madison Range, Montana…
Climbing Hilgard Peak In Montana’s Madison Range
Location: Hilgard Peak, Taylor Hilgard Unit, Lee Metcalf Wilderness, Madison Range, Montana Type: Peak Rating: Grade III Class 4+ Trailhead: West Beaver Creek Trailhead – 6,907′ Distance: 17.15 miles round trip Time: 9 to 13 hours round trip Hilgard Peak Elevation: 11,316” Total Vertical: 5650′ Lat/Long: 44.91640°N / 111.4597°W Maps: Hilgard Peak, Pika Point
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Hilgard Peak sits at 11,316′ in the Taylor Hilgard Unit of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness in the Beaverhead National Forest of the Madison Range of Montana. Hilgard is the highest peak in the Madison Range and the highest peak in Montana outside of the Beartooth Mountains.
Hilgard Peak as seen from Echo Peak
Turiano’s book, Select Peaks Of Greater Yellowstone, provides an in-depth look at Hilgard Peak. The peak was named after Professor E.W. Hilgard, who worked for the USGS in the mid-to-late 1800’s. Dave Wessel made the first ascent on Memorial Day 1948 by skis in one day.
Hilgard Peak as seen from Sentinel Peak
Access to Hilgard Peak is challenging. It’s a remote peak and can only be spotted from the road in a few places – including near Hebgen Lake. Most peak baggers use the West Beaver Creek Trailhead along FS Road 985 – although Hilgard can be approached numerous different ways.
Hilgard Peak
On a smokey August day, Jeremy Wood and I decided to climb Hilgard Peak. Driving down Highway 191 in the dark, we turned west on Highway 287 past Hebgen Lake. As we drove along in the morning light, we could just make out the pronged summit of Hilgard Peak in the distance.
Soon we turned on US Forest Service Road #985. We followed the dirt road north for roughly 3 miles until we saw a pullout on the west side of the road for the West Beaver Creek Trailhead – 6907′. We laced up our boots, packed our bear spray, and hit the trail.
West Beaver Creek Trailhead
Trail #222 immediately drops down and crosses Sentinel Creek. It then enters the Lee Metcalf Wilderness and wraps to the west. The trail follows the steep flanks of the mountain side high above the West Fork of Beaver Creek.
Entering The Lee Metcalf
Steep Trail Heading West Into The Mountains
After 4.65 miles, the trail splits at 8550′. Trail #222 continues on to Blue Danube Lake and Trail #152 heads to the NW toward Avalanche Lake. It took us 1.75 hours and 1715′ to reach this point.
West Beaver Creek
The Trail Split
We followed the trail to Avalanche Lake at 9015′. We reached the lake in 5.75 miles, 2.25 hours, and 2225′. There are some large fish in this lake and some well established campgrounds.
Avalanche Lake
We skirted around the north side of the lake and followed mellow off-trail terrain up toward the ridge to the north. There were a handful of unnamed lakes and the walking was straightforward.
A grassy ramp with large boulders made for easy walking to the ridgeline between Avalanche Lake and Hilgard Peak. We ended up a bit west of the saddle at roughly 10250′, but it seemed to work out just fine. It took us 3.75 hours, 7.45 miles, and 3610′ to reach this point.
Approaching the Ridge Toward Hilgard. We climbed up where the grass goes the highest.
The Ridge Line Before Dropping Down Toward Hilgard
From here we dropped about 500′ into the basin south of Hilgard Peak. This section was steep, loose, and firm. It took longer than planned due to conditions.
Steep, Firm, and Loose descent from ridge
Once at the bottom of the slope we had a long walk across uneven terrain, boulder fields, and steep moraines toward the base of Hilgard Peak.
Hilgard Peak In The Distance. it’s a Big Day
Steep and rocky approach
We crossed directly across the empty Lake Elise and upwards toward the unnamed lake at 10,465′ below Hilgard Peak. We reached this lake before our final approach in 8.5 miles, 5 hours, and 4275′. The lake is stunning as is the entire cirque. We even had 1x cell phone service with Verison at this point.
Lake Eglise?
Almost there?
Unnamed Lake at base of Hilgard Peak
We chose to ditch a bit of weight here in order to travel to the peak fast and light. We quickly climbed about 400′ up scree and grass to the East col below Hilgard Peak’s east ridge at 10,900′. From here, the climb gets a bit more serious.
Final Approach to the climb
Where To Go?
We based our route selection on Turiano’s description – including his warning “Experienced mountaineers will not need a rope for this climb, but novices would be in danger without.” We had a rope and all the gear. Ultimately we did not use it, but maybe should have.
As you can see in our photos, we climbed up loose rocks and slabs toward the gully that has a shadow in it. As we neared the shadow we worked right toward the ridgeline. Then a grassy slope opens up above the exposed gully. A few crux moves with solid hand and foot holds allowed us to cross over the exposure into a steep and loose gully above the shadow.
Looking Up East Ridge of Hilgard. Scramble up the slabs on right and then cross gully above the shadow
Climbing Up The grass before crossing the exposed gully above the shadow
Downclimbing the gully above the exposure
We climbed this gully up and then worked left onto another grassy slope. From here we climbed worked up a few ledges and climbed a small crack back right on to the ridge line.
Route Finding
Back to the right and up the crack
Looks intimidating, but with one move, it wraps off to the right to the ridge
Then we followed the ridgeline up to the top – only to realize that this was the 5.2 knife edge ridge that drops significantly to the west and a bit less significantly to the east. We downclimbed back and crossed easy and exposed terrain to a small gully that reach the col directly below the summit. A few more steps and were on the summit of Hilgard Peak.
Summit on Right. Knife edge ridge on left.
Almost to the summit
The 5.2 Knife Edge Ridge? Or the 4th class walk to easy gully climb below it?
We reached the summit in 6.25 hours, 8.9 miles, 5000′ up and 560′ down. Our final ascent route sounds a bit complicated, but it’s pretty straightforward as long as you are willing to sniff out the proper route. Turiano rates this climb as a III Class 4. I think easy 5th class could also be argued.
From the south summit of Hilgard Peak the views were mind blowing. The south summit is definitely the higher of the two summits. It would be fun to traverse to the north summit, then continue on to Dutchman and Echo Peak – a classic Madison Range Traverse. Not in the cards today though.
Hilgard North Summit
Hilgard, Dutchman, Echo – Looks Traverse Worthy.
Instead we enjoyed the views – Echo Peak, Dutchman Peak, Sentinel Peak, Peak 10930, Imp, Koch, Hebgen Lake, and so many unnamed peaks spread out in all directions. Numerous colorful lakes spotted the basins far below. It was unreal and I took way too many photos.
Amazing Views of to the South
The Approach To Hilgard Basin
View To The North Toward Hilgard Lake and Hilgard Basin
The Madison Range Spreads Out To The North
Echo in the Shadow, Dutchman in The Sun
After a leisurely half hour on the summit of Hilgard we decided we must go. It was still a long ways home. We carefully downclimbed our ascent route. We grabbed our gear near the unnamed lake and hustled back across the basin to the distant ridgeline.
The approach to Hilgard
The climb back to the ridge about Avalanche Lake was quick, but definitely challenging terrain. But at the top it was all downhill. We cruised down to Avalanche Lake, refilled our water bottles, and set our legs on autopilot down the trail and back to the car.
It’s all downhill back toward Avalanche Lake and the truck
Round trip our adventure to climb Hilgard Peak took 11 hours. We covered 17.18 miles and 5650′. Always a blast to climb a new mountain – especially when it’s the highest in the range. Hope to ski it next time.
Watch panorama views from the summit of Hilgard Peak:
View route of our climb of Hilgard Peak Montana on HillMap:
Additional photos from climbing Hilgard Peak in Montana:
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Hilgard Peak as seen from Sentinel Peak
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Hilgard Peak as seen from Echo Peak
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Hilgard Peak
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West Beaver Creek Trailhead
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Entering The Lee Metcalf
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Steep Trail Heading West Into The Mountains
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West Beaver Creek
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The Trail Split
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Avalanche Lake
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Approaching the Ridge Toward Hilgard. We climbed up where the grass goes the highest.
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The Ridge Line Before Dropping Down Toward Hilgard
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Hilgard Peak In The Distance. it’s a Big Day
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Steep, Firm, and Loose descent from ridge
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A rocky walk toward Hilgard
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Almost there?
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Steep and rocky approach
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Lake Eglise?
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Unnamed Lake at base of Hilgard Peak
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Final Approach tot he climb
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Where To Go?
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Looking Up East Ridge of Hilgard. Scramble up the slabs on right and then cross gully above the shadow
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Climbing Up The grass before crossing the exposed gully
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Route Finding
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Finding the way
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Back to the right and up the crack
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Looks intimidating, but with one move, it wraps off to the right to the ridge
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Summit on Right. Knife edge ridge on left.
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Almost to the summit
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The 5.2 Knife Edge Ridge? Or the 4th class walk to easy gully climb below it?
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Hilgard North Summit
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Amazing Views of to the South
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Echo in the Shadow, Dutchman in The Sun
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The Approach To Hilgard Basin
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The Madison Range Spreads Out To The North
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Hilgard, Dutchman, Echo – Looks Traverse Worthy.
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Looking East
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Downclimbing the gully above the exposure
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Last big push back to the ridge dropping down to Avalanche Lake
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The approach to Hilgard
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It’s all downhill back toward Avalanche Lake and the truck
This trip report for Hilgard Peak in Montana’s Madison Range is from August 29, 2016.
#amountainjourney #madisonrange #montana #eternalstoke
TR: Hilgard Peak in Montana's Madison Range Climbing Hilgard Peak In Montana's Madison Range Location: Hilgard Peak, Taylor Hilgard Unit, Lee Metcalf Wilderness, Madison Range, Montana…
Climbing Cedar Mountain East Summit In Montana’s Madison Range
Location: Cedar Mountain East Summit, Taylor Hilgard Unit, Lee Metcalf Wilderness, Madison Range, Montana Type: Peak Rating: Grade II Class 3+ Trailhead: Multiple Options Distance: 16+ miles round trip Time: 7 to 10 hours round trip Cedar Mountain East Summit Peak Elevation: 10,768′ Total Vertical: 4550’+ Lat/Long: 45.2267, -111.5116 Maps: Fan Mountain, Lone Mountain, Lake Cameron, Sphinx Mountain
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Cedar Mountain is located in the Taylor Hilgard Unit of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness inside the Beaverhead Deerlodge National Forest in the Madison Range of Montana. It’s a massive mountain that resembles a mountain cathedral. Cedar Mountain has an incredible ridge line that wraps around a stunning cirque that holds the aquamarine Cedar Lake.
Along the ridge you’ll find high points like 10459, 10768 (East) and 10479. Yet, the West Summit of Cedar at 10,780′ is not even labeled and is the highest point. This trip report covers our journey to the top of Cedar Mountain’s East Summit – point 10768′. According to Montana.gov, this is the highest point on Cedar Mountain.
Cedar Mountain
Cedar Mountain As Seen From Fan Mountain
Cedar Mountain As Seen From Lone Mountain
Cedar Mountain’s ridge line wraps around a large cirque that contains the stunning aquamarine Cedar Lake before it tumbles out on Cedar Falls and drains out into Cedar Creek. It’s one of the more beautiful settings in the Madison Range, but it’s remote and hard to access.
Montana Is Stunning.
Cedar Mountain can be approached from numerous different trailheads. Perhaps the most popular access begins at the trailhead located at the bottom of the Jack Creek Road on the West side of the Madison Range. Access from the Big Sky side is blocked by private land. If you are granted access from Moonlight Basin or via the Yellowstone Club, Cedar Mountain is a much closer objective.
Starting from the end of the Jack Creek Road, Hop onto the Jack Creek Trail #317. It goes uphill through forests for roughly 3.4 miles when it hits a dirt access road. The access road continues on to 7,100′ near Shadow Lake. This is where I remembered to start (and stop) my Gaia GPS and Suunto Ambit3 Peak. From here the trail becomes a real trail once again and soon enters the Lee Metcalf Wilderness.
The Trail Begins At Shadow Lake
From the Shadow Lake turnoff to the first trail split is roughly 2.1 miles and gains about 615′. Here the trail splits again. To the right Trail 344 takes you to Trail 321 and onwards to Cedar Lake. To the left, the Jack Creek Trail continues. We opted to follow the Jack Creek Trail because we wanted to summit via the ridge.
First Trail Split
We continued on the Jack Creek Trail for 2 miles and 1100′ until it intersects the Cedar Loop Trail. At this point, turn southwest and follow the trail uphill. Be respectful and don’t enter the private property owned by the Yellowstone Club. We followed the trail for a little while longer and then stuck to the ridge line, which is also the boundary for the Lee Metcalf Wilderness.
Cedar Loop Trail Splits with Trail 317
The Cedar Loop Trail on the Wilderness Boundary
Mountain Goat!
The ridge makes for decent walking and the views are outstanding. A few sections look intimidating as you approach, but as you sneak up on them numerous ascent options open up. The final push to point 10459 on the ridge line was a grueling slog up loose rock.
Our approach toward the Cedar Ridgeline
The Ridge Approach
The Flanks of Cedar and the Hilgards In the DIstance
A mountain of loose rock
After reaching point 10459, you can spot Lone Mountain, Fan Mountain, Cedar Lake and both summits of Cedar Mountain. The ridge rolls up and down. Careful route finding along the ridge is necessary, but it’s also relatively straightforward. Loose rock underfoot is the biggest concern – especially because the views are so distracting.
Lone Mountain and the Spanish Peaks
South Side of Fan Mountain
Cedar Lake – Can you see the trail?
Reaching The Ridge Near Point 10459
The ridge goes up and hits a sub peak around 10,600′ then drops down to about 10,400′ at a col before the final summit push. The last section of ridge is has one almost 4th class section and then with a bit more walking you’re on top of Cedar Mountain’s East Summit. The views are mind blowing.
Looking back along our ridgeline approach
Watch your step
Cedar Lake with both East and West Summits
A rocky ridge walk
Getting Closer
Final Ridge Approach
Sphinx Mountain and the Helmet, Pioneer, Spanish Peaks, Lone Mountain, and the distant Taylor Hilgards. A good eye can make out Echo and Koch in the distance. Cedar Lake drops out below you and Ennis Lake and the Madison Valley can be seen far below. We could have spend all day there, but we chose to descend after about 20 minutes.
Sphinx and the Helmet
Lone Mountain and Pioneer Mountain
The Cedar Mountain Cirque
Our Ascent Route From the Summit
One route option that we considered was to continue around the cirque and drop down on the far side above the lake near point 10479. Due to a few timing issues, we decided to to backtrack down to the last col at 10,400′, and down climb the scree to the lake as this was definitely faster than heading along the unknown ridge line – although we plan to come back and complete the Cedar Mountain Ridge Traverse.
Looking West Toward Cedar Mountain West Summit via the Ridge
The West Summit Of Cedar
Cedar Lake
In another 45 minutes, we were at 9500′ staring across the aquamarine Cedar Lake and up toward the summits and rocky ridgeline far above our heads. There are remnants of wheelbarrows and other items laying around the lake, which is actually dammed. People tell me there are big fish in the lake too, but I can not verify that.
Our descent route from the ridge
Cedar Lake – 9,500′
Cedar Mountain Cirque and Lake
Looking back at Cedar Mountain East and our descent from the col
The Dam
A faint climber trail works down the northwest face below the lake and drops quickly from 9500′ to 8700′. A massive waterfall tumbles down the cliff face of Cedar Mountain below the dam. You’ll find a well established horse camp located here near trail 321.
Heading Down The Trail 321 ALong Cedar Creek
Cedar Creek and Fan Mountain
Steep Terrain for a trail
Cedar Falls
The trail drops steadily downhill over the course of about 3 miles to an elevation of 7366′ where it intersects trail 344. From here Trail 321 fades to the west, while Trail 344 crosses a meadow and climbs steadily up almost 350′ in 0.6 miles back to where it intersects Trail 317, the Jack Creek Trail. Follow the Jack Creek Trail all the way back to the access road at 7100′ at Shadow Lake.
A serious horse camp near Cedar Falls
Last Glimpse of the Y Couloir on Cedar Mountain – Is There Still snow in there in August?
Climbing Cedar Mountain East Summit was an amazing adventure. If I could do it again, I would continue along the ridge and complete the Cedar Mountain Ridge Traverse. Or if I only wanted to climb Cedar Mountain East Summit, I would hike to Cedar Lake and then climb the scree slope up to the col below the final summit.
Both East and West Summits From The Lake
Our adventure, only calculating from Shadow Lake to the East summit of Cedar Mountain and back to Shadow Lake (because that’s what my watch tracked) took 8 hours. We covered 15.95 miles and 4550 vertical feet.
Watch panorama views from the summit of Cedar Mountain’s East Summit:
View route of our climb of Cedar Mountain East in Montana on HillMap: http://www.hillmap.com/embed/ag1zfmhpbGxtYXAtaGRychULEghTYXZlZE1hcBiAgIDw5-KGCAw
Additional photos from climbing Cedar Mountain East Summit in Montana:
This trip report for climbing Cedar Mountain’s East Summit in Montana’s Madison Range is from August 12, 2016.
#amountainjourney #madisonrange #montana #eternalstoke
TR: Cedar Mountain East Madison Range - Montana Climbing Cedar Mountain East Summit In Montana's Madison Range Location: Cedar Mountain East Summit, Taylor Hilgard Unit, Lee Metcalf Wilderness, Madison Range, Montana…
Climbing Echo Peak In Montana’s Madison Range
Location: Echo Peak, Taylor Hilgard Unit, Lee Metcalf Wilderness, Madison Range, Montana Type: Peak Rating: Grade II Class 2 Trailhead: Sentinel Creek Trailhead – 7,150′ Distance: 20.5 miles round trip Time: 8 to 14 hours round trip Echo Peak Elevation: 11,250′ Total Vertical: 5250′ Lat/Long: 44.94202°N / 111.46274°W Maps: Hilgard Peak, Pika Point Weather Forecast: Echo Peak Weather
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Echo Peak is the 3rd highest peak in the Madison Range of Montana. Located in the Taylor Hilgard Unit of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness, Echo Peak sits at 11,250′. It’s big, remote, non-technical climb that’s well worth the effort.
Echo Peak Above Expedition Lake
Jeremy Wood and I set out to climb Echo Peak in Montana on a cool August morning. Temperatures hovered just above freezing as we drove north on Forest Service road #985. We parked at 7,150′ in the Potamogeton Park (named after a freshwater aquatic plant) area at the end of the road. We geared up and hopped on the old heel-toe express on the Sentinel Creek trail #202 at 7 AM.
Potamatogen Park – FS Road 985
Multiple trails leave from Potamgeton Park. The Sentinel Creek Trail leaves from the southwest end of the parking area. It drops down, crosses a creek, and enters the Lee Metcalf Wilderness before it heads north. It rolls and meanders through forests and meadows – prime grizzly habitat. After about 3 miles, it makes a sweeping turn to the west and begins to cross numerous streams that flow into Sentinel Creek.
Taylor Hilgard Unit – Lee Metcalf Wilderness
The Sentinel Creek Trail #202 is well maintained. It must see quite a bit of horse and human traffic all though you feel like you have the entire wilderness area to yourself. Since the latest maps have been printed, the trail has been been rerouted. Remnants of old trails linger in the woods. Stick to the dusty trail and continue to gain elevation as you move uphill. After about 6 miles, the trail pops out into a wide open basin east of Expedition Pass.
Peaceful brook flowing through the high alpine meadows
Expedition Pass
After 7.95 miles, Sentinel Creek Trail #202 splits. Hilgard Basin Trail #201 heads south and Trail #202 continues on to Expedition Pass to the W-NW. The trail split is on the ridge between Hilgard Basin and the basin east of Expedition Pass at roughly 9,800′. Take trail #201 into Hilgard Basin. We reached this point after 3 hours and 2875′ of elevation gain. FYI – this trail split is at a different location than is seen on the USGS Map.
Sentinel Creek Trail #202 and Hilgard Basin Trail #201 Intersection
View from Pass
From this point Echo Peak is within sight. The trail drops down via numerous switchbacks into Hilgard Basin towards Expedition Lake. Before we reached Expedition Lake we ventured off trail around 9,700′ so we could beeline it toward Echo Peak.
Echo Peak and Hilgard Basin
Echo Peak
The open terrain is easy to traverse across. There are numerous named and unnamed lakes scattered across Hilgard Basin. We skirted around these water features toward Point 10290, which is above Sunset Lake. In August there was a steady flow of water coming down a grassy section of moraine to the east of point 10290 and to the southwest of Thunderbolt Lake. It made for easy hiking up to a small basin below the north ridge of Echo Peak.
Echo Peak
Circle of Life
Options For Scrambling Up The Moraine – We went left in the grass
In this small basin there were a few patches of lingering snow, a melted out lake, and a bit of rocks to hop over. Here you can choose your own scramble to gain the north ridge of Echo Peak. We opted for a small saddle just before the final summit push. It held a bit more grass and seemed to be the least steep option.
A disappearing high elevation lake
The Summit Of Echo Peak
After 4.25 hours we reached the ridge at 10,800′. We had covered 4,111 vertical feet and 9.65 miles to reach this point. LTE service made our phones chime to life. From here, expansive views of the Madison Valley and the Taylor Hilgards spread out before us. But there is still the final summit push.
Hilgard Basin
The last push up the north ridge is very straightforward. There is little exposure and it is a non-technical climb. As we followed the climbers trail, we both agreed it was one of the easier summit climbs in the Madison Range. Grassy and mossy ledges mixed with solid rock made for a mountain-stairstep like experience. In no time we reached the summit of Echo Peak at 11,250′. A large cairn marks the summit of Echo.
North Ridge Of Echo Peak
North Ridge of Echo Peak
Echo Lake
On most maps of Echo Peak something called the “roof” is labeled at 11,211′. The Roof is a triangulation station that is southeast of the true summit – allowing it to be sighted from the East. Many maps show the elevation of Echo Peak as 11,214′, but close examination of any topo map shows a full contour line at 11,240′. Montana.gov lists Echo Peak as the 45th highest peak in Montana at 11,250′. This meshes with the GPS readings I had on multiple devices when we summited Echo Peak. So in my opinion the elevation of Echo Peak is 11,250′ – the third highest point in the Madison Range.
Cairn Marks The Summit
Easy To Enjoy The Views
The top of Echo Peak is wide and grassy as it flows down to the west. It’s sheer and exposed to the east as it drops off steeply into Hilgard Basin far below. There is certainly some good ski potential in this fun zone, but today it was all about the views. We reached the summit of Echo Peak in 4.75 hours, 4,595′ and 9.9 miles.
Grassy slopes of Echo Peak looking north
We wandered around the summit plateau of Echo Peak and soaked in the sights. Hilgard, and Dutchman were off to the south. Someday I’d like to do the Hilgard-Dutchman-Echo Traverse – a cool, technical ridge traverse adventure. Hilgard Basin and it’s numerous lakes dotted the immediate landscape. To the north you can see Peak 10930, Sentinel Peak, Woodward, Imp, Koch, Sphinx, Lone Mountain and numerous other noteworthy mountains. In the distance to the East Sage Peak, Hebgen Lake, and Yellowstone National Park were visible. Impressive.
Views Of Hilgard and Dutchman to the south
Looking West From Echo Peak
Woodward, Peak 10930, Sentinel Peak and Hilgard Basin
Hilgard Peak From The Summit Of Echo Peak
Hilgard Lake, Clear Lake, Tallus Lake, Gnome Lake, Cataract Lake, Painted Lake
Do I see a future ski line?
Koch Peak and Imp Peak
Dutchman and Hilgard
After a leisurely 45 minute summit session, we decided it was time to head back to the car. We began our descent 5.5 hours after we left the car. We boogied down the north ridge, down climbed the moraine, and stopped to refill our water bottles in the flowing water on the lower moraine. The Steripen worked great to purify our water.
Heading Down the North Ridge Of Echo Peak
Steripen at work
The top of Echo Peak is wide and grassy as it flows down to the west. It’s sheer and exposed to the east as it drops off steeply into Hilgard Basin far below. There is certainly some good ski potential in this fun zone, but today it was all about the views. We reached the summit of Echo Peak in 4.75 hours, 4,595′ and 9.9 miles.
Expedition Lake
Round trip our adventure to climb Echo Peak in Montana took 9 hours – 7 AM to 4 PM. We covered 20.55 miles and 5,253′ according to my Suunto Ambit3 Peak watch. Highly recommend this summit to add to your bucket list. Might be good to camp in Hilgard Basin for a night or two also!
Read more about Echo Peak in Tom Turiano’s Select Peaks Of The Greater Yellowstone.
Watch panorama views from the summit of Echo Peak:
View route of our climb of Echo Peak Montana on HillMap:
http://www.hillmap.com/embed/ag1zfmhpbGxtYXAtaGRychULEghTYXZlZE1hcBiAgIDwx4OICgw
Additional photos from climbing Echo Peak in Montana:
This trip report for hiking Echo Peak in Montana’s Madison Range is from August 5, 2016.
#amountainjourney #madisonrange #bigsky #montana #eternalstoke #echopeak
TR: Echo Peak In Montana's Madison Range Climbing Echo Peak In Montana's Madison Range Location: Echo Peak, Taylor Hilgard Unit, Lee Metcalf Wilderness, Madison Range, Montana…
Hiking Woodward Mountain In Montana’s Madison Range From East To West
Location: Woodward Mountain, Madison Range, Montana Type: Peak Rating: Grade II Class 2 Trailhead: Upper Taylor Fork Trailhead – 7,250′ Distance: 10.35 Time: 5 to 8 hours round trip Woodward Mountain Elevation: 10,659′ Total Vertical: 3700 Lat/Long: 45°00′34″N 111°24′51″W Maps: Koch Peak, Lincoln Mountain
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Woodward Mountain is a beautiful mountain located on the Lee Metcalf Wilderness boundary in the Madison Range of Montana. The peak sits at 10,659′ near the junction of Lightning Creek and Taylor Creek. This peak is clearly visible as your 4×4 vehicle drives down the Taylor Fork Road toward the Upper Taylor Fork Trailhead.
Woodward Mountain From The Taylor Creek
On a sunny July day, Jeremy Wood and I decided to climb Woodward Mountain. There is no defined or standard route up to the top of Woodward Mountain. Pretty much every route is a scramble. Based on map research and limited beta our plan was to head up Lightning Creek, climb the East Face, tag the summit, down climb the west face to the north drainage and head out the Taylor Creek trail – basically a loop that traverses the peak. Here’s our trip report.
Woodward Mountain
We parked at the Upper Taylor Fork Trailhead at 7,250′ and hit the trail in the early morning light. We quickly walked up the Taylor Creek Trail #17 for half a mile. At the first trail junction, we turned on to Lightning Creek Trail #7.
Taylor Creek Trail / Lightning Creek Trail Split
The Lightning Creek trail weaves through the forests and crosses a large parcel of private land. Be respectful and stay on the trail at all times. It’s well marked. After another 2.3 miles we turned on to the Alp Creek Trail #158. The trail crosses a creek and gains a bit of elevation. Soon we entered the Lee Metcalf Wilderness. Shortly after we popped out into a wide open meadow. This was about 3.9 miles down the trail around 8325′ in elevation.
Leaving Trail To Head To Woodward Mountain
From here we turned west and started hiking up the East face of Woodward Mountain. The hiking was easy as we moved steadily uphill through wide open meadows filled with rocks, wildflowers, and trees. We continued upwards toward the ridge line. The final approach to the ridge had lots of loose rock and was a bit challenging, but we soon made it to the ridge.
Friendly Off Trail Meadows
Lots of Loose Rock
Steep Scree
A few mountain goats played on the rock covered slopes and we continued putting one foot in front of the other toward the summit of Woodward Mountain. The rock is very sharp and would eat up a dog’s paws.
The Rock Covered Ridge Line
Looking Down our Ascent Route
The final push is steep but wide open, and then it narrows into blocky slabs with precipitous drops off to the west side all the way to the summit. It seems that the entire mountain could fall down into the enormous cirque thousands of feet below at any moment. We reached the summit in 3.25 hours after covering 5.25 miles and 3525′.
Woodward Mountain Summit Approach
Block Summit
Precipitous Drops
After a few moments on the summit of Woodward Mountain at 10,659′ we found a place to sit down and enjoy the views. Wow. Koch Peak, Tunnel Ridge, Peak 10809, the Taylor Fork, and beyond. Echo, Hilgard, Imp, and the Spanish Peaks lay in the distance.
Good Place To Check Out The Map
Amazing Views
Echo Peak
The Taylor Fork Road In The Distance
Tunnel Ridge
Good Place To Enjoy The Views
With strong LTE signal at the summit, we consulted GAIA GPS and finalized our plan to descend Woodward Mountain via the west face and into the Northernmost drainage down to Taylor Creek.
Our Descent Route
The steep western face was covered in loose and inconsistent sharp scree. At approximately 10,000′ we headed north and walked down a stunning and mellow drainage below colorful limestone. We hung on the far right side of the drainage walking on loose rock and relied on GAIA to navigate back toward Taylor Creek. I would not recommend ascending this side of the mountain, but you could do it.
Loose and Inconsistent Scree
Anyone see a ski line?
Unnamed Peak South Of Woodward
Northern Drainage
A mellow walk downhill
Limestone Formations
The Taylor Creek Drainage
We crossed the Taylor Creek at 8000′ and scrambled up to Trail #17. We reached this point in 5.25 hours and 7.3 miles. From here it was smooth sailing on the trail back to the car. There was one last wet crossing of the Taylor Creek before we hit the junction of Trail 17 and 7 again. A few short minutes later and we were back at the car. Another peak in the bag.
Crossing Taylor Creek
Woodward Mountain and Taylor Creek
Round trip our east to west traverse of Woodward Mountain in Montana took 6.25 hours. We covered 10.35 miles and 3701′. The views from the top were well worth it.
Watch panorama views from the summit of Woodward Mountain:
View route of our hike to Woodward Mountain on HillMap:
http://www.hillmap.com/embed/ag1zfmhpbGxtYXAtaGRychULEghTYXZlZE1hcBiAgICw442eCww
Additional photos from hiking Woodward Mountain:
This trip report for hiking Woodward Mountain in Montana’s Madison Range is from July 29, 2016.
#amountainjourney #madisonrange #bigsky #montana #eternalstoke #woodwardmountain
TR: Woodward Mountain, Montana Hiking Woodward Mountain In Montana's Madison Range From East To West Location: Woodward Mountain, Madison Range, Montana…