old trail above Apikuni Falls

The maintained park service trail ends at the foot of Apikuni Falls, but remnants of an old trail takes you up and around the falls to the great basin above. The rounded summit of Apikuni Mountain is visible in the background. This trail is used to access gorgeous Natahki Lake; note the large grey cliff band that enters the frame from the left. Enlarge the photo and you'll see a lush, green gully directly above a skinny snow patch that lies at the base of the cliff; some class II and III climbing alongside this drainage gives safe passage above the cliffs, and from there it's an easy stroll through the forest to Natahki. Apikuni Mountain is easily climbed from this point as well. Simply pick a spot to head up and to the right (northeast) towards a broad shoulder, and grunt through the class II slog all the way to the summit. June 30, 2009