GENERAL OVERVIEW: It connects Lewis Creek with upper Ireland Creek. If you're ultimately headed to Maclure Creek or the Lyell Fork, this route provides a shorter path across the Cathedral Range, versus hiking around on trail past Vogelsang and Evelyn Lakes.
CLASS/DIFFICULTY: Class 2
LOCATION: HST Map
ELEVATION: 12,147 feet
ROUTE DESCRIPTION (west to east): Start by ascending the trail to Vogelsang Pass. At 10,500’, depart the trail and go cross-country north up the grassy watershed. At 10,900’, turn east and climb sandy slopes to reach the so-called Parsons Traverse, a class 1-2 plateau that extends from Fletcher Peak to Parsons Peak. Follow the traverse for 1.5 miles to reach Parsons Peak at its eastern end. From the peak, descend the southeast face on class 2 slopes. The uppermost 200 feet of the SE face is stable talus, and the lower portion of the SE face is sand. When descending the SE face, aim for the seasonal tarn, sometimes called "Thank You Tarn."
- Parsons Traverse, as seen from Lewis Creek at approximately 10,000'
- On the Parsons Traverse, looking east towards Parsons Peak
- On the SE face of Parsons Peak; it's stable class 2 talus. "Thank You Tarn" can be seen in the distance below.
- Another view of the SE face of Parsons Peak: it's stable class 2 talus and sand.
