North Ridge

Overview

The north ridge of WCP-3 is the most direct route available for reaching the summit of WCP-3 and is the only realistic option if trying to reach the summit without backpacking in. The south and west ridges are also Class 2 terrain, but include a long journey to remote Swimm Lake prior to reaching them.

Getting There

From the beautiful mountain town of Stanley, go northeast on Highway 75 for 24 miles (or 34 miles southwest from Challis). Just after the highway crosses the Salmon River, there is a turnoff to the right (south) for Slate Creek. Follow the road for 0.8 miles until you reach a fork. Take the left branch and follow the dirt Slate Creek Road (FS666) until it ends at around 7 miles from where it leaves the highway.

Route Description

From the Slate Creek trailhead, follow the most obvious trail past the Slate Creek Hot Springs, old mine buildings, and mounds of silty tailings to a creek crossing. Just after crossing the creek, the trail forks with the left branch leading to Ocaulkens Lake. For WCP-3, take the right branch leading to Hoodoo Lake. The trail follows a long since abandoned mine road that switchbacks its way up the mountain to the west. There are various side trails that lead off the end of switchbacks, but it is best to stay with the trail that “switches back”. In a couple miles, the trail ends at Hoodoo Lake. From the lake, circle around to the far side and make your way up the slopes to the southwest. Soon you’ll be in a beautiful alpine basin at around 8900’ in elevation. Continue towards the back of the basin until you are parallel to the low point on the ridge to the east, which is the north ridge of WCP-3. Climb up the lightly forested slopes to the low point, then stay on top of the Class 2 ridgeline to reach WCP-3. Its around 4 miles (one way) and 3500’ of gain to reach WCP-3 via the north ridge from the Slate Creek trailhead.

Essential Gear

No technical gear required, just dress for the weather.

Images

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