Summer 2020: Bulger list peak bagging day with friends on an Enchantment Core zone permit trip! Nice thing about tagging peaks in the core zone when you get to camp is that you can enjoy leisurely mornings. Set off about 9:30AM from camp above Perfection Lake and followed the trail east past the north end of Perfection Lake, and over Snow Creek. At the trail junction below Lake Viviane we continued south along a steady grade at about 6,840’ which takes you just past a privy. Continue on the trail looping south to a flat area at 6,920’ where we went off onto the climber’s trail. At this point, the ‘trail’ follows boulders, talus and scree as you hug the west of the ridge and gain the saddle in the ridge visible from the core zone. Here there is some slabby scrambling- its definitely 4th class but we didn’t feel too much exposure. Over the saddle you walk along a high alpine wonderland to the back side of McClellan peak.
Route finding here can be difficult as you’re scrambling up over large boulders. Ascent and descent route are the same and goes straight up McClellan to the summit block from the south. I initially explored a route ‘option’ to the east which is not recommended- much more exposure than necessary on this scramble. Summit block itself is straightforward and 4th class. Summit block is airy and awesome on clear days. Truly Enchanting.
Helmet is necessary on this route, and boots recommended over all the rocks. No water available after you go off trail and start ascent. Descent route retraces your steps down the ascent route.
Red Tape: NW Forest Pass or equivalent required for parking at trailheads. Self issue permits required for all day use and this area of alpine lakes wilderness requires advanced reservation for all backpacking permits issued in a yearly pre-season lottery. Check with the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest for up to date information on permits, and check out this post for details on hiking in the enchantments. If you visit this delicate alpine wonderland please be respectful, stay on trail whenever possible, and leave no trace.