The Great Burn

For those speedy hikers Rhodes Peak can be hiked in a day. For those like me, a trail sloth, a backpack camp at Goat Lake half-way there is a fine alternative for a multi-day hike to three nearby summits. The lake is within a scenic alpine basin next to W7I/NI-108 and looks across a valley to Williams Peak W7I/NI-003. Rhodes Peak is Clearwater County’s highpoint and is sought by those summiting every County highpoint in Idaho. This popular summit has two elaborate summit register books.  We met folks on our hike heading for this popular summit. 

Williams Peak is a good trail hike with a short off-trail hike and a short rock scramble. The summit has good views but little room for operating. A good alternative is to hunker-in just below the summit and tie off to one of the few snags or live trees on the south side. 

Williams Peak is also an ideal hike for a double activation with Rhodes Peak, W7I/NI-001.  Both are just off the well-maintained US Forest Service Trail # 508.  Both summits are an easy access up grassy/rocky ridges