Page Type:
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Route |
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Lat/Lon:
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40.68070°N / 111.043°W |
Route Type:
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Hiking, Mountaineering, Scrambling, Skiing |
Season:
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Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter |
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Time Required:
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Half a day |
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Difficulty:
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Class 2 |
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Overview
Assuming that your vehicle can make the trailhead, this is the by far the shortest route to Peak 10,931. The trail heads north to Big Elk Lake, where you will climb to the pass directly north of Big Elk Lake and to the summit.
West Ridge of Peak 10931.Getting There
The Norway Flats Road branches off the north side of Highway 150, 10.6 miles east of Kamas. There is a sign marking the road. The road is good for the first mile, and then it quickly deteriorates into a 4wd road. Follow the 4wd road north staying on the main road that is marked for 4wd's (staying away from the forks marked for ATV use). Near the end of the main road there is a junction. Turn right along a less used road and follow the road to its end. If you reach a large lake, you're in the wrong place. Turn around and backtrack a short distance to the last junction and follow the less used road to its end. At the end of the road is a vehicle barrier trench and a signpost without a sign (late 1990's). This old blocked off road is the beginning of the trail.
Big Elk Lake in winter.Route Description
From the trailhead, the trail heads east and drops rather steeply at first before leveling off after a short distance. After .5 miles from the trailhead, the trail reaches a marshy meadow and fades out. Pass the meadow on the west (left) side. At the north end of the meadow the trail becomes distinct again. The trail then climbs gently at first, but then climbs steeply to Big Elk Lake. Big Elk Lake is in a spectacular setting and is one of the most beautiful lakes in the Western Uintas.The trail to Big Elk Pass from Big Elk Lake is also inistinct. From Big Elk Lake, the route climbs steeply north to a bench. Watch carefully for cairns that mark the route. From the bench head west to a small pond.
From near the pond, scramble north to the obvious pass. From the pass, follow the ridge east to the summit. There is some boulder-hopping and scrambling along the way. Enjoy the views from the summit.
The round trip distance is about 4.8 miles to Peak 10931 and back.
Click for full size map.