Great Trail

There are many areas to explore and many sights to see on this trail.  For example, remnants of the abandoned Gargett mine are below High Pass.  If you are a climber, this route takes you to the popular Mt. Larrabee.  If you just enjoy the scenery, this trail offers some of the best views in the area.

Start your hike on the Winchester Mountain Lookout trailhead above the Twin Lakes parking lot.  After approximately 1/4 mile take the marked High Pass route to the right (north west).  After a slight climb, you will start your descent into Winchester creek canyon before you begin to ascend into 5600 ft. Low Pass.  Continuing on one mile farther towards High Pass, you will see a faint miner's trail bearing to the left towards the abandoned Gargett mine.  If you take the fork to the right you will ascend towards Mt. Larrabee where the trail ends at approximately 6700 ft. elevation.  Just for the record the it is 2.5 miles from the trailhead to the Gargett mine and 3.4 miles to the end of the trail below Mt. Larabee. 

Strong hikers can easily hike High Pass and Winchester Mountain Lookout in the same day.  If you must choose one trail, the High Pass trail offers the most in terms of views and an awesome trail experience.  Most people choose to hike the shorter Winchester Mt. trail so if you don't like crowds, that's even one more reason to hike the High Pass trail.

During years with above average snowfall, this trail will have areas covered with snow until late in the hiking season.  The best time to hike this trail is late August through September.