02. Antler Peak, 7017' (H-S)
Antler Peak is an easy hike-scramble from Sunrise. Most of the route is on-trail with a short scramble up a brushy hillside. Flowers are particularly spectacular in July and August. The road to Sunrise often does not open until July 4. The origin of the peak’s name is uncertain, though it likely was named after elk residing in the area.
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Driving
Drive SR 410 4.5 miles south of the Crystal Mountain ski area turnoff and turn right on Sunrise Park Road. Drive 15 miles to the road’s end at the Sunrise Visitor Center parking area.
Route
The trailhead is located to the right of the restrooms. Begin uphill on the asphalt trail leading to Sourdough Ridge. In a short distance, at the fork in the trail, go right (northeast) and head toward Antler Peak. On reaching the ridge at 6720', continue east. Since Antler is so close to Sunrise and the hillside is so fragile we recommend continuing 300 yard or so past the flank of Antler on the trail to the first window where the trail overlooks to the north. From here travel northwesterly along the ridge to avoid brush when possible. The approach keeps the route on more durable surfaces. Also by approaching via the ridge you are less visible to others in the Sunrise area. (Thanks to Henry Romer and Margot Tsakonas for helpful suggestions.)
Comments
You can make this a multi-peak day by climbing McNeeley and Dege as well as Antler. The three peaks would likely take 5–6 hours.
Vital Statistics: Antler Peak
Skill: Easy scramble
Beauty: 3
Effort: 1
Round-trip distance: 1.7 miles
Elevation gain: 700'
Total time: 3 hours
Best season: Anytime Sunrise is open, July until first snow USGS
Equipment: Hiking gear
Antler Peak Topo
(use CalTopo to print PDF topo, view Google Earth, download tracks, for trail head weather) [How to ?]
Antler Peak Photo
Antler and Dege as viewed from Sunrise