Black Peak's South Ridge

Starting at Rainy Pass trailhead, you'll proceed to skirt high above Lake Ann on a marvelously maintained trail. Without realizing you're about to arrive at a pass, you'll come to Heather Pass, where you'll need to take a right. Continuing straight is also a popular hike, especially during peak larch season, where a large loop can be made by combining Lake Ann with Rainy Lake.

Continuing on from Heather Pass the trail will deteriorate somewhat and you'll have to scramble over boulder fields at times. Cairns are usually present in sufficient number to make the route finding mellow. A good map and compass, along with requisite skills, allow you to proceed with confidence here.

The first lake you'll come to is Lewis Lake, where great camping spots can be found if you have chosen to do this trip as an overnight. Continuing on is a sizable climb to gain Wing Lake. This highest lake offers stunning views of the epic east face of Black Peak.

From here you should eyeball your route to gain the col below the south ridge. It's fairly obvious from the lake, but some good landmarks scouted here will help you along your way. Once at the col, it's a scramble up to the top. There is tremendous exposure at times, but if taken carefully, the climbing never exceeds class 3. Keep in mind that whatever you climb, you'll need to downclimb, so be conservative!