Iron

Inspired by the ongoing Sierra Challenge, but not inspired enough to drive up to Bridgeport, I decided to forego my planned rest day and hike Iron Mountain.

I drove down to Red’s Meadow at 6am, in order to get in before the road closed. Iron Mountain is perched in a beautiful location across the Middle Fork San Joaquin drainage from Mammoth. Surprisingly, I didn’t see any hikers all day after crossing the river. The final mile and a half along the ridge was a bit tedious, but the views made it all worth it. At the summit, I was treated to beautiful panoramic views of the whole San Joaquin drainage. I especially enjoyed the unique vantage of the Minarets and Ritter Range to the north.

Soon, I was walking back down the trail and prepping for my hike on Clyde Minaret the following day.