Home»All Photographs»2015 Hikes»Ramp Peak 06-20-15

I initially chose Molar Pass as a hike that could be done in poor weather. But when the conditions exceeded the forecast and snowmelt was ahead of normal for this time of year, I decided to tack on Ramp Peak to the day as well.
Normally, I would go for the peak first, but I didn't branch off the main trail soon enough, so I went to Molar Pass first. The environs of South Molar Pass were lovely, with some remaining snow patches competing for space with the emerging wildflowers. Glacier lilies were prolific and I kept a keen eye for bears who love this seasonal food source. Scanning ahead and making lots of noise, I left the trail and headed cross-country directly toward Ramp Peak. Soon after, I crested a rise and saw a grizzly ahead of me at 50 yards feeding on bulbs. Adrenaline hit but I kept calm, observing the bears behavior. I receded back a few feet, and feeling no aggression or surprise from the bear, I took out my camera for a few quick shots. Then, a second bear emerged from behind a bush! Oh boy, what a sight! Both seemingly unconcerned of my presence, they continued their foraging. I backed off, hiking a wide circle around them before maintaining my original line toward Ramp Peak. This diversion was a bit tense, as I had lost sight of the bears at this point. I made much noise and hiked away, quickly distancing myself from their foraging area.
The weather held beautifully as I began the grind up Ramp Peak. From the summit, there is a lovely view down into Pipestone and Clearwater Passes, both in pristine, seldom visited valleys due to their distance from the trailhead.
After descending Ramp Peak, some bushwacking through open forest brought me back to Mosquito Creek, where I found the hiking trail again and finished a fantastic loop hike that I won't soon forget.