We had always noticed a unique peak, called Musinia (Marys Nipple) as we were driving I-70 returning from trips to Moab and Colorado. Since our route going home from the Wasatch Plateau would take us right by this peak, there was no way we couldn’t stop and bag this short, but fun hike. Although there is no “official” trail, there is obviously one that starts from an unmarked road to the north of the peak and provides an enjoyable two-mile stroll to the base of the mountain. From here it is a short scramble up through the rock fortress that guards access to the summit – the final push does require pulling oneself through a class 3 chute, but if two sixty years old can do it, we’re assuming you can, as well!
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| We got an early start as the sun was rising over Emerald Lake |
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| A little farther down the road we passed by Blue Lake . . . the Wasatch Plateau has so many lakes! |
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| The trail begins in a lush aspen forest (If you don't see this old trough within a quarter mile, you're not on the right path) |
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| After a steep initial ascent . . . The trail levels out and follows a ridge that provides outstanding views on both sides for the remaining 1.5 miles |
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| The wildflowers were "pretty" amazing! |
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| This section was short . . . but very steep . . . remember, one step-at-a-time! |
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| Kent is working his way to the chute |
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| The chute was tricky . . . but we made it! We actually found that coming down was easier than going up . . . go figure! |
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| On top was this sighting tower . . . something we hadn't seen before, along with a benchmark (silver disk next to Kent's pack) and two reference markers |
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| Musinia offers great views in every direction (For the best views make sure to walk out to the western most point) |
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| There were log books to sign . . . Along with this interesting box with a funny plaque and several pieces of signaling mirrors |
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Kent taking in one last view before descending the chute After many years of dreaming about hiking this peak, it was good to make it a reality! (In the distance are the peaks we hiked the past two days . . . |
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| As on any hike, we constantly look up to see the peak we are striving to reach . . . Hiking down a trail, we often see things we missed like this field of Alpine Shooting Stars |
Tom had done this peak a few weeks earlier, so he took a different route home that was easier for his truck and trailer. Click here if you would like to see his Peakbagger.com post that has a topo route and GPS track.
The starting point for the trail that shows on the topo map no longer exists. It does, however, begin from an unmarked road that exits FS road 150 just to the north of where Tom started (it, as well, does not show on the topo map). After taking this road watch for a FS trail marker (no motorized vehicles beyond this point; open to foot traffic; etc.) as you head west on this unmarked two-track. Park at the sign and begin the hike on an old road behind the FS marker. This abandoned road eventually turns into a trail somewhere between peaks 10,375 & 10,266 that show on Tom's topo map.
