This was my second Winter activation attempt of this summit. The first one ended in an epic fail getting my Jeep stuck in the snow (see picture below). I had to do a self-recovery with my shovel and winch. Do not attempt to drive on the groomed "road." Though along the non-winter access road, this is a groomed "trail" for snowmobiles!
This successful activation occurred a few weeks later. Instead of following the 3.8-mile road access, I pieced together a combination of road, bushwhack and ridge approach. There is ample parking at an established recreation lot (42.16908, -114.27658). The lot is located approximately 1-1/2 miles south of Magic Valley Resort where Rock Creek Road is closed for the Winter. From the lot, hike along the "road" for approximately 1 mile where the bushwhack begins (42.16335, -114.29145). Follow the draw up the mountain until you reach the ridge (42.16390, -114.29667). At this point you can drop down to the "road", turn left (south) and continue to a point to access the summit (less than 500 feet). I opted to walk the 1-mile along the ridge to the summit (it parallels the road with less undulation). The GPS recorded 2.38 miles.
This is an easy to moderate ascent. The "road" was packed/groomed and the bushwhack was wonderful snow 2-3 feet deep. It was a joy to snowshoe. I wish this was a longer portion of the ascent/descent!
The actual peak had no trees and was very windswept. There are 360-degree views. I opted to drop down about 25 feet into a small grove of deciduous and coniferous trees to get out of the wind and secure my mast.
