Follow
the directions for Monashee Lake Trailhead. Hike to the lake and
continue along its north shore, then follow the drainage toward a
shallow saddle, 115623. The objective will be in sight; aim for the
west ridge; the ascent to the top is easy.
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The start of the well-defined trail.
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Hike:
RT 9.0; 5.5 up. This objective is simple and gives you a chance to
check trail conditions and snow levels for tougher scrambles such as
Mount Severide and The Pinnacles. Sunny Peak is a good candidate for
early-season hiking on snow, which is one of my favorite times to be in
the mountains. It was our first time visiting Monashee Lake; the trail
was snow-free for most of the way. We encountered snow when we started
traversing towards the lake, which was still snowbound. The scenery was
delightful. We casually hiked on firm snow to the bare summit ridge;
the ascent was easy. We stayed at the top for a while, enjoying the
view and the warm, calm day. Our return was fast until we ran out of
snow; without boot-skiing, a regular descent pace resumed. Sunny Peak
is fun and easy, especially with snow!
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Nearing the waterfall at the headwall.
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Snow facilitates both ascent and descent.
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Looking back from above the headwall.
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Higher up, the trail is covered by snow.
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Monashee Lake ahead.
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A short distance from the lake, Sunny Peak comes into view.
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Ascending to the ridge.
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Straightforward hike to the top.
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Reaching the summit cairn.
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Impressive Pinnacle North and Center Pinnacle south of us.
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Mount Severide to the north-west.
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The view north includes some lofty peaks.
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Heading down.
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Swooshing down is fast and fun.
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Back at Monashee Lake.
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