Re: Which Mineral King loop? (Timber-Sawtooth vs Franklin-Sawtooth)
Posted: Mon Sep 10, 2018 5:10 pm
Well, as it happened, I wasn't enraptured by the scenery on the north loop. I think it would be much nicer earlier in the season. Since that was how I was feeling, I didn't check out the Little Five Lakes detour. The Big Five Lakes detour was worth doing, but not amazing.
Lost Canyon, though, I did enjoy quite a lot. It's a short hike up the canyon, but that is the kind of scenery I like much better.
Lost Canyon:

Sawtooth Peak over Columbine Lake (the pass is at the right):

After hitting Sawtooth Pass, I followed the ridge to the Peak—nice views!—and then descended the other ridge, so I can't say anything about the west side of Sawtooth Pass.
Lost Canyon, though, I did enjoy quite a lot. It's a short hike up the canyon, but that is the kind of scenery I like much better.
Lost Canyon:

Sawtooth Peak over Columbine Lake (the pass is at the right):

After hitting Sawtooth Pass, I followed the ridge to the Peak—nice views!—and then descended the other ridge, so I can't say anything about the west side of Sawtooth Pass.