August 9, 2003

The trailhead for Eagle Peak is in the Longmire area.  You must drive past the ranger stations to the back of the complex through the community living area.  You will come to a one-lane wooden bridge.  After you cross this bridge the trailhead is on your left.  Drive a little further down and park at the community building.

Picking up the trailhead the trail will start climb immediately upward.  The hike is a steady climb to the top through some wonderful old growth forest.  At the half way point you will cross a small stream with a footbridge.  The forest eventually opens up with a great view of Chulta Peak.  At this point, you start a steep ascent across a talus field.  At the top of the talus field the trail climbs sharply but then levels out in a cove of trees.  This is NOT the summit or saddle that you are attempting.  Once through the cove of trees the trail ascends at a steep angle to a series of tight switchback across the rock face leading to the saddle.  The switchbacks are only about 20-25 feet in length and are not difficult except for the steepness.  The trail eventually ends at the saddle between Eagle Peak and Chulta Peak.  There is a sign that states the end of the trail. 

If you decide to take in a snack, be wary of the Gray Jays or "Camp Robbers" - they take the food right out of your hand while you are trying to eat it.