paul wrote: ↑Sun Apr 25, 2021 8:40 am
Glad you got a permit, Pete. Maybe you can try and climb Mount James on day 2, it's definitely doable from Atlantic Creek.
Looks like I'm not going to get a permit this year. My 4th choice probably still has an outside chance but I'm not really too excited about it. It's a trip from Two Medicine to Red Eagle lake and back. It really boggles the mind how much the park has changed in the last couple of decades. I pretty much had my choice of camps and itineraries in the early 2000s. I remember walking into the Apgar backcountry office at 10am and walking out with an itinerary starting that day that included UPK, BOU and HOL.
Paul
Hey Paul, bummer you haven't gotten anything yet. Even in the time I've lived here I've seen the same thing about getting a permit.
Twice I've gotten a permit to do a version the Bow--HOL--KIN with ease, or so it seemed at the time.
Had to bail both times. Once due to phlebitis in my right leg, the other cancelled due to really bad weather.
Yeah, and "walking in" is definitely not like it used to be.
You should go do something in the Wind River Range(like you did recently?) and tell us about it.
One day I'll get there!
As for Mt James. After reviewing the route to both Triple Divide Peak and Mt James....
It's looking more and more like I'll try St James first, and do something else on day 2.
The pictures in this link were taken in July 2008, almost identical dates I'll be there.
NO way would I be able to try Triple Divide back then, or this year if snow conditions are anything near what they were in 2008.
Scroll through until you see the image that shows the long traverse under the saddle between Triple Divide and Razoredge Mt.
ALL snow covered and very steep to boot. So...it'll almost certainly be St James---all Class II on "consolidated scree" after the pass.
Even if the scree is snow covered it should be firm snow and relatively easy to walk on with Microspikes.
Some remaining snow would be ok for a water source. Late in the year there is no, very little water on that trail.
Still be a long day at 9-10 miles round trip and +-4500feet.
https://www.summitpost.org/mount-james/images/p-420105
Good luck wherever you end up Paul!
pete