From your car, follow the maintained trail to a fork. Take the left fork, which climbs steeply into Herman Gulch, contouring above the east side of the creek. The trail levels out, crossing a beautiful meadow (the base of a deadly avalanche run in winter). Trekking through more forest, soggy sections will be encountered. Please remain on the trail to reduce your impact on this heavily used area. The trail climbs in steep fashion to the bench where Herman Lake is located at about 3 miles.

Go around the east and north sides of Herman Lake (the south and west sides can be soggy) and then ascend a slanted, bench slope due west beneath the north face of Pettingell Peak. As you reach higher ground on good tundra, arc toward to the north for the final pitch up Pettingell's south slopes to the summit ridge. Gravel and some loose rock may be encountered, but nothing serious. A brief hike due east on the ridge will put you on top.

Return the same route.

ROUND TRIP MILEAGE: 8.5 miles
GAIN: 3,273 feet

Essential Gear

SUMMER & FALL: Standard dayhike gear will do.

SPRING: Winter gear and an ice axe are recommended.

EARLY SPRING & WINTER: This area is nortorious for avalanche activity and should be avoided during this period.

Miscellaneous Info

If you have information about this route that doesn't pertain to any of the other sections, please add it here.