GENERAL OVERVIEW: This is a very gentle route connecting the lakes in Lost Lakes basin with the lakes that feed Kuna Creek below Kuna Peak
CLASS/DIFFICULTY: Class 1-2
LOCATION: Minarets Wilderness
ELEVATION: 11,450 ft
USGS TOPO MAP (7.5'): Koip Peak
HST Map: HST Map
This is another one of those off-trail passes for which it takes appreciably more effort to reach the vicinity of the pass than it does to get over it, once you're there. This one's probably about a 1.5 on the rating scale on the south side and a 1 on the north side: basically a scramble up a rock, grass and flower-laden hillsides to the broad ridge. The south side was so inconspicuous that we neglected to take photos, but at least there are a couple shots looking down as we ascended the ridge. From the ridge, you can see into the basin to the north and the myriad small lakes. Again, it's a stroll down the north side. The real treat is the HUGE long range views of Lyell, Ritter, Banner, the Minarets and the rest of the stunning cohort of peaks to the south and west. The photos begins with two shots during the ascent from the south followed by views "down" the other side and a final long-range shot back that includes the pass.
- View back at Lake 10955 during ascent
- Another view down to Lake 10955
- Broad view into basin to north of the pass
- Close up view into the basin to the north from Lost Lakes Pass
- Another view down into the basin on the north side of Lost Lakes pass
- View back at the pass from the north