ApproachFrom the Piney River Ranch entrance, follow the Piney River trail due east toward Mount Powell (on the left) and Peak C (on the right). The trail goes through a series of switchbacks before dropping into the drainage close to Piney Creek. A short hike along a pleasant stretch where the stream runs over polished rocks leads you to the beginning of a side trail that may be hard to spot. Keep an eye peeled for cairns that mark the beginning of the route. A distinct and singular large rock marks the beginning of the trail, as do cairns prior to the rock, to the left.
Depart the main trail due left and follow a use trail north through the forest. Downed timber will occasionally lay across the trail. Be sure to pay attention and follow the trail. The trail climbs up over some granite slabs before entering a soggy section along the stream that runs from the basin far above. You will cross a minor stream.
Avoid the temptation to cross to the other side of the major stream further up the trail. Route finding skills are useful through this stretch. Stay on the left side of the stream as you climb further east toward the basin below Mount Powell and Peak C. Some steep sections through willows, trees and rocks keep you close to the stream. This trail seems to be easier to follow going down than coming up, even after multiple visits.
After two hours and 3-plus miles, you'll enter the enchanted basin. Follow the route and stream due east, finally hopping across the brook and stand in the open tundra glory of this special place.
The trail continues east and can be seen switchbacking up the steep slope between Mount Powell and Peak C to a saddle known as Knee Knocker Pass. Do not follow the trail any further, but look south at Peak C's West Ridge. Three couloirs should be evident. The center couloir, the widest of the three options, is where this route up Peak C begins. An eastern-most couloir is also a good option. Though the route is more direct, the couloir is narrow and may not be suitable for your group, and snow or ice may linger longer. You should be positioned at the bottom of either couloir at this point.
Route DescriptionScramble through some boulders and climb up the steep but wide couloir (referred to as Couloir #1 here on) on hardpacked scree and tundra littered with loose rock. The eastern couloir option is approached on tundra. Extra care with footing is needed, particularly with large groups. Staying to the left or right as you climb these couloirs will minimize rockfall events. Expect loose rock and hardpacked scree.
At the top of the couloir, veer left and follow the West Ridge due east. You can go along the top for some dramatic views or contour along the south face across steep tundra (stay high) and save a little time. As you make this traverse, study the west face which you are about to climb. Note a band of tundra trending left which you will climb up, a jumble of rock to the right and a wide and shallow couloir (#2) further right. (The deeply inset and narrower couloir further right is NOT the one to climb). When you climb down to and arrive at the top of the eastern most couloir of the west ridge, your climb of Peak C rises in earnest.
Scramble up the steep tundra and occasional rock bands (Class 2), going high enough in anticipation of crossing the mouth of a narrow gully that is unseen until you are upon it. Cross the top of a wider gully on brief but loose scree, and use grassy ledges to traverse southeast across steep tundra and rock (Class 2 or 3). Arrive at the jumble of rocks, a collection of boulders which is easily navigated with about 80 feet of elevation loss to your entry point of Couloir #2 (Class 2).
Steep and moderately exposed Class 3 climbing on the West Ridge and Face Route of Peak C
Digital photo by Aaron Johnson The initial climb of the couloir involves bypassing a steep wall on the right (Class 3). Fun climbing up the couloir follows (Class 2). Staying to either side of the couloir will minimize rockfall potential. This couloir looks more difficult than it is (see below) and is fairly well "cleaned up."
A climber descends Couloir #2 on the West Ridge & Face Route of Peak C
Digital photo by Aaron Johnson At the top of the couloir, you can go left or right around a rib of black rock. Going right follows a cairned route over easy rocky terrain. Going left takes you up steep tundra. If you go right, you'll be tempted to take on "the great ramp," a feature that is visible on the mountain from as far as Piney Lake. If you're a confident climber and like Class 3 friction climbing with minimal holds, this slab climbing is a fun and unexpected treat. When you "run out of ramp," go left and get on the tundra. Do not attempt this section in wet conditions!
Staying left of the ramp takes you up steep tundra and rock. As you approach the summit, the scrambling difficulty inceases among large boulders (easy Class 3, depending on your route). The comfy summit boulders make for a great place to lounge, eat and take in the staggering view.
Descending the ramp is not recommended. Stay on the tundra back down to the top of the couloir. Return the same route.
You have the option of descending the entire length of Couloir #2 for some more sporting climbing. Your route choices could lead you into Class 4 terrain and getting into loose rock near the bottom is a certainty. This messy stuff can be avoided with some good route finding. As the debris field at the bottom of the couloir widens, veer right toward the beginning of the west ridge, which is clearly evident, and resume your route. This option is fun but increases your total mileage by a half mile, so it's not recommended unless you have the time and energy.
ROUND TRIP MILEAGE: 9 miles minimum
GAIN: 4,170 feet
Experience in climbing varied terrain with moderate exposure is recommended.
    
    
Who Should ClimbThis is a steep and dangerous mountain and it should only be attempted by folks experienced in exposed Class 3 terrain.
Essential GearStandard dayhike gear will do, but plan accordingly for a long day.
In snow or ice conditions, crampons, ice axe, rope, rack and screws are essential and the difficulty rating of this route would increase accordingly.
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Gore Range
