Trip Report
The day after the Sweet 16 trip on Little Kane Peak, the "Final Four" headed to Star Hope Campground to hike up White Mountain.
White Mountain is considered it's own mountain range and sits just west of the main Pioneer crest and just north of Glide Mountain.
It was another beautiful day as we headed out for the hike. We simply followed the trail up Bear Canyon to the right fork at around 1.5 miles in. This fork is signed, but the sign is on the ground.
We had great conversation while we hiked and enjoyed the warm sun. Our goal was the saddle west of the peak. However, the trail started to head down before reaching the saddle. True peak baggers don't give up elevation, so we cut into the forest, aiming for the west ridge.
There was some downfall and the cross country was steep, but it got us to the west ridge eventually. By the time we sat for a quick break, I was drenched and thirsty... we only had 400 feet to go now though.
Just after the break, the trees thinned and the views opened up. The final 200 feet were on fairly stable white talus. The summit ridge was a fun walk with great views and large cairns to guide the way.
This was a quick peak to ascend and likely not on many people's lists, but the views are incredible. To the west are the big Pioneer peaks like The Fin, Standhope Peak, Altair Peak, etc. To the north you had Copper Basin in it's entirety in site with the Lost River Range rising beyond. To the east were the peaks surrounding the Star Hope, Muldoon, and Lake Creek drainages; along with a nice view of the White Knob range.
On descent, we angled straight down the slopes to catch the trail. Here JJ and I got separated from Margo and Steve, but both groups made great time to the trailhead. After some post-hike beers, it was time for them to head out and for me to go fishing with my wife.
Great day two hike with excellent hiking partners!
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