Sheep Mountain Trail

Hike the Sheep Mountain Trail through sparse pine and fir trees as it guides you in and out of tree shade. This trail is pretty awesome, as you hike the path you will enjoy sights of wild mushrooms and blossoming flowers in the summer months. Find information plaques describing the surrounding landscape along the path. Hike the rocky terrain through alpine meadows and between steep granite walls. You will have to navigate steep rocky terrain on this excursion, so ensure to wear sturdy shoes and consider trekking poles. Make sure to bring plenty of water, notably if you are not used to the altitude in the area. Note that there have been rattlesnakes spotted on the trail so proceed with caution!

Begin your journey up the Sheep Mountain Trail from the parking lot. Notice there are washroom facilities and garbage cans here. When you are ready, head north on the Round Mountain Nature Trail. Shortly after your departure you will confront a junction, turn left and you will be diverted onto the Round Mountain Summit Trail. Hike this path as it guides you through several sets of switchbacks through the woods. Continue on the path and travel through the small granite corridor. Track south and the trail will intersect with an alpine stream. At this point, you will have graduated from the timberline and the path will be almost completely exposed. Eventually you will encounter a fork in the road, veer right and stay on the Round Mountain Summit Trail.

This path will guide you northwest and through more sets of tightly wound switchbacks. Navigate the technical terrain and you will summit Sheep Mountain. Enjoy the view from atop the rocky summit and catch your breath. Rehydrate and refuel before attempting the steep descent. When you are ready, simply backtrack along the path all the way back to the parking lot.