South Chinese Wall

Itinerary

Day 1

As always guests arrive at the 7 Lazy P guest ranch the afternoon prior to the departure date of the scheduled trip. After breakfast and final gear preparation, the trip departs right from the 7 Lazy P Guest Ranch. We ride up the Middle Fork of the Teton and over 7200′ Route Creek Pass into the North Fork Sun River drainage. We descend down into the valley to our camp on Wrangle Creek. 13 miles and approximately 5 hours of riding time.

Day 2

Layover day. Enjoy fishing on the nearby Sun River, take a hike, or just relax. There is a hike for any level from short and easy to climbing Wapiti Ridge or an all-day hike to the top of Wrong Ridge. The views are incredible. Crew members are always available to accompany guests to the river fishing, or on any of the hikes. Guests are also free to go on their own if they choose.

Day 3

Today we move down the valley of the Sun river. We will ride through Gates Park guard station where guests will stop for lunch. This is a historic ranger station that started out as a homestead. From here we start up the Rock Creek drainage where we will stop and make camp at Baldy Bear Creek. This will be a one night camp. Approximately 11 miles and 4 hours of riding time.

Day 4

Leaving Baldy Bear Creek, we pass the the Rock Creek guard cabin and begin to gain elevation on our way up to the base of the wall. We ride by Spotted Bear Pass, Larch Hill, and My Lake. Now we are at the north end of the wall and Larch Hill Pass. As we traverse the head of Rock Creek, the stunning cliffs of the Wall now tower about you. This is truly an awe inspiring sight. The trail takes us over into the head of Moose Creek. Down the the Wall is a high alpine meadow where we will make camp for two nights. 13+ miles and 5.5 hours riding time.

Day 5

A layover day. Don’t be surprised to find a trace of frost on the grass as you make your way to a hot cup of coffee. Sunrise against the Wall is unforgettable and no photos will do it justice. The main attraction is a nice hike up through Trick Pass and on to the top of the Wall. The views are spectacular in any direction and on clear days the peaks of Glacier Park stand out. This is a moderately strenuous hike but quite achievable for a high percentage of folks and well worth the effort. Those not so inclined can take any level of a lesser hike or relax around camp.

Day 6

Now we leave the Wall and make our way down Moose Creek back to the Sun River. We cross the river at the confluence of these two streams and move a short distance up river to our campsite at Sulphur Creek. This is a beautiful campsite right on the river. The fly fishing here is incredible. There is lots of open country on the slopes east of the river and they are covered with lush grass. This is definitely the stock’s favorite campsite and watching them run out of camp for the hills and some premium grazing is always a favorite event for the guests. 14 miles and 5 hours of riding time.

Day 7

Layover day! Take your pick of activities. After a leisurely breakfast, the fishermen will want to head for the water. There is also a nice easy day ride loop around the big grassy hills of the lower North Fork. Wet the sun is high, the river might calling your name for a refreshing swim, nap, or both! No matter what you do, this is a very relaxing place to soak up and enjoy the wilderness.

Day 8

This is our last day, but we have saved a very impressive ride for the last. Moving back towards the Gates Park guard station, we will turn east and cross the Sun River over the pack bridge. These classic suspension bridges are iconic features of the Bob Marshall. We will be moving up Headquarters Creek and 7800′ Headquarters Pass. This is a beautiful high rocky pass and a testament to the trail builders of the past. Don’t be surprised to see some mountain goats. After topping the pass, it is a short distance down to the trailhead on the South Fork of the Teton. Here we will be met by staff from the lodge who will shuttle us the short drive back. Say goodbye to your horse here as they are turned out for a well deserved break as they graze their way back to the 7 Lazy P. 16 miles and 6 hours riding time.

Guests depart lodge the following day.