EISPIRATEN

Hiked up to the three lesser (lower) Hawkinsessesesessss this morning. Parked the car on ACH at mile marker 66.37 and hiked straight up the left (east) side of the gully that leads to Windy Gap. The use trail is clearly defined with only a few loose and steep sections. Makes quick work of getting to the PCT for the hike up to the Hawkins Ridge "trail". The "trail" pretty much disappears as you come around Sadie Hawkins (unnamed point 8047 on maps). There are ribbons tied in the trees supposedly to mark a route, but it didn't seem to help much so I made my own way through all of the downed trees and brush. Once at the saddle just north of South Mt. Hawkins, take the road (3N07.2 I think) or a good use trail up the ridge to get to the peak/lookout.

Weather was chilly at first but warmed up nicely. A slight breeze kept things nice and cool in the shade though. Great hiking weather. Only saw 4 other people - 2 guys heading east on the PCT and 2 people looking for something to do after camping overnight at Little Jimmy. I think they ended up going to Middle Hawkins.

Pics.

Looking south from the old lookout...


Didn't expect to see this bird at 7500'...

Pretty sure it is a Great Egret.

Looks great!! That egret really needs to find a lake somewhere....weird!

excellent trip....I still may get to see South Fork Iron. I was eyeing the route from South Hawkins(7400) NE to S Iron(6400) to Copter(from elev 6500)....looks good to go.

AW wrote:excellent trip....I still may get to see South Fork Iron. I was eyeing the route from South Hawkins(7400) NE to S Iron(6400) to Copter(from elev 6500)....looks good to go.

Interesting. Here's an HPS TR from a group that headed down into South Fork Iron from Middle Hawkins and then up to Copter Ridge. Sounds interesting - have fun!