The Hike -- Segment 3 -- Crest of the Range to McFarland Peak Junction (3.0 miles)
At the saddle (Table 1, Wpt. 03), the trail turns north and climbs many stone waterbars that act like big stairs on a strenuous section, but they pass in 5 minutes or so.
The trail generally runs north with a few short, steep sections, but mostly the grade is leisurely. There are great views in all directions from the crest, but the ancient bristlecone forest is so thick that it tends to obscure the expansive views familiar to desert hikers.
Along the ridgeline, the trail runs over hills, around knobs, and across saddles for about 2.5 miles to the base of the South Ridge of McFarland Peak (Wpt. 04).
At the base of McFarland Peak (Wpt. 04), USGS topo maps show that the trail turns south and heads down a long series of switchbacks on the west side of the peak before making a big loop to the north side of the peak. This is no longer the case; the trail has been re-routed and shortened. |