15. Brown Peak, 6322' (H)

Brown is an easy hike with a short off-trail portion. Because the off-trail portion has an easy to follow route with most of it defined by a footpath we classify Brown as a hike. This trip can be combined either with a scramble of the Palisades or Slide Mountain. The origin of Brown Peak’s of the name is likely due to the lack of trees or much greenery at the summit.

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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 13 miles to Sunrise Point (elevation 6100') and park in the large parking lot.

Route

From the east end of the parking lot, take the Palisades Lake Trail. In approximately 1/3rd mile take the right fork (heading north) in the trail toward Clover Lake/Upper Palisades Camp. Continue on the trail for another 3 miles and just before reaching Upper Palisades Lake around 6100', leave the trail and follow an obvious boot path and easy slope and ridge to the summit of Brown Peak

Comments

Wonderful flowers abound in late July and August. This peak could be combined with the Palisades or Slide Mountain. A challenging day would be to leave two cars and (starting at Sunrise Point) traverse first to Brown and then continue on the ridge north to Slide and then exit the park to the north (see Slide Mountain description).

Vital Statistics: Brown Peak

Brown Peak Topo

• Skill: Easy scramble

• Beauty: 5

• Effort: 3

• Round-trip distance: 8 miles

• Elevation gain: 2250'

• Total time: 5 hours

• Best season: Whenever the road to Sunrise is open, generally after July 4

• Equipment: Hiking gear