Climb to the summit of Chief Joseph via Thorp Creek to the west and the Chief Joseph - Hurwal Divide - Matterhorn ridge to the south. From the point where the route reaches the ridge north of Hurwal Divide, there are three progressively higher ascents, with sections of loose rock. This is a summer scramble route (A climb).

Activity Notes

On Saturday morning, starting at 06:00, we will backtrack a half mile to a climbers’ trail to reach the ridge to our east. Once we reach the ridge, we will turn south to reach the summit of Hurwal Divide. Then we will turn north toward Chief Joseph. This will involve three short ascents to progressively higher points. This is where we will find loose rock, including the aforementioned steep scree fields.

Unlike the Sacajawea climb on Sunday, this climb is exploratory for climb leader Bill Stein. I have studied routes others have taken and am confident that this climb will work for a group of experienced scramblers.

Other Information
Driving Distance from Portland 330 miles
Driving Time from Portland 5 hours
Distance - Round Trip 13 miles
General Route Info From Hurricane Creek Trailhead, backpack to a 7,450’ camp in Thorp Meadows to the northeast of Sacajawea. The next day, backtrack a half mile north and take climber's trail east to the ridge that links Chief Joseph to Hurwal Divide and the Matterhorn; the route reaches the ridge a half mile north of the summit of Hurwal Divide.
Expected Duration Car to car in two or more days
Interesting Features Lake(s), Ridgelines, River or Creek Ford, Wildlife
Relevant Books Barbara I Bond, "75 Scrambles in Oregon: Best Nontechnical Ascents" (2005), pages 184-187
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