03. Anvil Rock, 9584' (S)
Anvil Rock is a small peak with spectacular views. It is only 500' below Camp Muir, so if you are headed to Camp Muir you might take a short side trip to Anvil Rock. Or if you are headed to Anvil Rock and have not visited Camp Muir, a visit is worthwhile. Unless you are out for a “burn,” we suggest saving this one for good weather. Come to think of it, this would apply to most peaks in this guide. This peak’s name is descriptive, as the rock looks somewhat like an anvil, at least from some vantages.
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Driving
From the Nisqually Entrance, drive 17.5 miles to the Paradise Visitor Center parking lot or the larger parking lot just beyond the visitor center.
Route
From either parking lot, take the Skyline Trail heading north. There are several interconnecting trails but the Skyline Trail is easy to find. In approximately 2 miles, come to Pebble Creek. Continue northward, heading to Camp Muir. In early summer the path is snow covered beyond Pebble Creek. In late summer, depending on snow level, there is a good bootpath beyond Pebble Creek leading toward Camp Muir. Leave the path to Camp Muir anywhere between 9200' and 9500' and head westward to Anvil Rock.
Comments
The Muir Snowfield looks benign, but it can be a killer when visibility is poor. Be prepared for unpredictable changes in weather, take a compass and map (or GPS), and follow compass bearings—particularly when descending. When visibility is poor, there is a tendency to follow the “fall line,” especially without a compass bearing. This can lead you into the Nisqually Glacier. More than one person has died making this mistake.
Attempting to stand on Anvil Rock is not a good idea. Touching it with your pole is considered a “tag.”
Vital Statistics: Anvil Rock
Skill: Easy scramble
Beauty: 9
Effort: 8
Round-trip distance: 8 miles
Elevation gain: 4000'
Total time: 7 hours
Best season: Year-round; for winter trips, experienced climbers only and be well prepared for winter travel
Equipment: Scramble gear; crampons and ice ax for winter or icy conditions
Anvil Rock Topo
(use CalTopo to print PDF topo, view Google Earth, download tracks, for trail head weather) [How to ?]