From the trailhead, hike south on the Rock of Ages (#429) trail. Shortly after leaving the trailhead, stay left -
1. After walking over a mile, turn left to begin your ascent out of Elk Creek Basin -
2. Follow the trail northeast (
3) over the ridge separating Elk and Silver Pick basins and enter Silver Pick Basin, near 11,400' -
4.
Once in Silver Pick, stay on the designated (and hopefully signed) trails as you ascend through the basin -
5,
6 and
7. Near 12,100', leave the road on the right and follow a trail up to the right -
8 and
9. Turn back to the east (
10) and hike to the center of the basin, passing above an old, crumbling rock house. Please stay away from the rock house since it's on private property. Continue east a bit farther and turn right to reach the south end of the basin. Follow the trail up steeper terrain as it swings right, toward the Silver Pick Mine area -
11 and
12. At 12,600', near the mine, turn sharply back to the southeast and traverse a steep, rocky slope (
13 and
14) to reach the Rock of Ages saddle, at 13,000' -
15.
(WINTER) HOLD ON! If you don't have much high-elevation, winter climbing experience, be careful in your planning and take a partner. All 14er routes are more difficult and more dangerous in winter.
