Avion Ridge
Avion Peak 7,995

This is one of the most popular of the beginner “off trail” hikes in the park. However, as things stand now, the trail is pretty well defined. Even a green tourist should have a hard time getting lost.

The standard trip is from Red Rock to Goat Lake, and then over to Lost Lake and back down to snowshoe cabin. On the north side of Goat Lake, over by the campground, a trail head north to the saddle visible in the back of the lake. It heads through the obvious weakness in the band of Purcell Lava. The trail becomes faint along the rock above. Stay low in the trees. In the next opening it tends to the right. From here it is a gentle grind up to the saddle.

From the saddle, peak bagger usually head right, up Newman Peak (8,599). Those who are a bit more conservative with their energy expenditures stay on the standard route that cuts around the north side of the small pyramid to the left. This short section has the most exposed scrambling on the route. Adventurous individuals can easily gain the ridge directly, instead of traversing around the back.

Follow the ridgeline above sheep valley (the small valley with the tiny lake to the north). Some newer scramblers may be intimidated by the large drop off on your right (north). There are few technical difficulties. However, in the spring, some sizeable cornices may make for interesting walking. The trail avoid the summit of Avion Ridge, traversing across slightly underneath to the south.

As you start to descend, the Tamarack becomes plentiful. The early fall is definitely the most spectacular time to travel. Eventually you will run into the Castle River Divide. Follow the trail south into Lost Lake. There is not much water along this hike, so make sure you fill up at Goat Lake.