From the parking area, follow an obvious drainage north/northeast directly toward the base of the peak. Route-finding is not difficult as the mountain is immediately in front of you. During the wetter months, the drainage will have some beautiful small cascades in it. Travel in the drainage is generally over smooth sandstone slopes and ledges and lingers in the class 2 (and easy 3) realm.

Once the base of the mountain is gained, the drainage forks somewhat and tends to continue to the left and more northerly. The right fork, though less obvious, initially goes to the east but then quickly leads straight up north when cliffs are encountered. This is the most direct approach to the summit.

Take the left fork and aim for one of the ramp systems leading upward toward the west ridge above. The second one from the right, in my opinion, looked about the easiest.

Follow the class 2 and occasional class 3 ramps and ledges upward until the ridge crest is gained. During wetter months, there may be running water coming down the fairly wide ramps (gullies).

From the ridge crest, head east until you find yourself only a few hundred feet below the summit on a wide ledgy area with a series of narrow sandstone steps leading you upward. In dry months, this is straightforward class 2 (sometimes 3) hiking/scrambling. In wet months, such as March when I did it, these steps are ridiculously iced over and downright treacherous, though the frozen cascades and icycles are beautiful. Protecting on the thin ice is virtually impossible and the Park Service would frown upon the use of crampons on the sandstone.

Assuming the terrain is passable and dry, head up the steps, which will eventually turn back into wider ledges and ultimately cruise on up to the summit.

There's no summit register, but there is a small cairn. The views from the top are absolutely phenomenal. This short and sweet, easy summit is well worth doing.

*** To descend, retrace your steps.

Essential Gear

Boots, water, sunscreen, topomap, and a compass.