Peak Climbed: "Chess Ridge"

Peak Height: 12,279'

Route: South Ridge

Difficulty: Class 3

Location: Wind River Range, Wyoming

Trailhead: Big Sandy Opening

Mileage & Gain: 3.6 mi & 1,800 ft RT

Date Climbed: August 21, 2018

Chess Ridge probably gets its name from a cluster of small towers that vaguely resemble chess pieces. From camp at Macon Lake its a relatively easy but very scenic and worthwhile little trip. It was just what the doctor ordered for my tired and aching body after yesterday's big day. The round trip only took about three hours at a slow pace.

Pleasant grassy slopes above the lake eventually yield to boulders higher up. Much of the talus is covered in black lichen which was treacherously slick from yesterday's heavy soaking. The views east from along the dramatic eastern edge of the ridge are sweet, and were made even sweeter during my visit by a dramatic inversion. The summit is a cool jumble of large boulders.