Length: 13 Mile RT
Elevation Change: 2700' Elevation gain / 300' loss
Season: Mid-Summer thru Fall
Difficulty: Difficult due to length
Permit: NW Forest Pass Required
Features:
The Hike to Sheep Lake via Nannie Ridge begins just east of the
campground at Walupt Lake. The trail is very steep at first and
gains about 2000' in the first 2 miles. Most of the first 2
miles is in dense forest with very few views.
At about 2 miles the trail passes over the crest of a spur
ridge of Nannie Ridge and one can hike directly to the top
of Nannie Peak from this point. However, you continue to
follow Trail #98 to go to Sheep Lake or the junction to the
Pacific Crest Trail #2000.
After Sheep Lake, follow the Pacific Crest Trail on toward
Cispus Pass. The trail climbs steadily below the ridge on
your right as you come over a saddle still a mile or so from
Cispus Pass. Here you have magnificent views of the highest
Peak of the Goat Rocks, Mount Gilbert, over 8000' above sea
level.
The trail switches sides of the ridge and continues on toward
Cispus Pass. In season the entire distance from Sheep Lake to
Cispus Pass is a floral paradise. And if you are lucky, you
will be privileged to view numerous mountain goats.
Upon reaching Cispus Pass, you will have excellent views north
toward Mt Ives. At this point, it is time to turn around and
head back to the trail head where you began this adventure.
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