Peak Climbed: "Loch Leven Peak"

Peak Height: 11,525'

Route: South Slopes

Difficulty: Class 2

Location: Wind River Range, Wyoming

Trailhead: Big Sandy Opening

Mileage & Gain: 2.6 mi & 1,300 ft RT

Date Climbed: August 23, 2018

Loch Leven Peak is a minor, unofficially named summit next to Loch Leven Lake. Apparently the lake was once stocked with loch leven trout, a strain of brown trout originating in Loch Leven in central Scotland. They were put here because they can't migrate to other lakes from this spot, which is desirable since brown trout eat other trout.

Even though I was most interested in collecting 12ers on this trip, Loch Leven seemed like a worthy little morning jaunt before continuing on from Washakie Lake.

I had never had to bushwhack through dense forest in bear country before, and I was very nervous. Ten minutes after leaving the trail I came across a big pile of poop full of berries, which did not help to calm my nerves! I seriously thought about turning back. Instead I blared music at full volume from my cell phone to let the bears know I was coming! I had never even listened to music on headphones while hiking before. It felt bizarre to be rocking out in such a remote place!

Loch Leven Peak offers fantastic views of Chess Ridge and Washakie Lake and is a casual two hour round trip from Washakie Lake.