52 Hike Challenge 2016 Adventure Series
4.5 miles | +1600'
The trail to Lawson Peak, a granite boulder heap on the
southern end of the Cleveland National Forest, can be either a moderately steep
hike or an extremely difficult rock-climbing adventure. The first leg, along a
two-mile stretch of the dirt Carveacre Road, offers views of backcountry
mountain ranges to the south. This used to be a popular trail for the 4WD
crowd, but unfortunately the city put up a gate at the trail head ending all
motorized access.
The peak reaches approximately 3,600 feet above sea level.
As you ascend the slabs and boulders, the temperature will drop significantly.
Soon, the road crosses with another and the highest boulder atop the peak is
clearly visible. Heading straight will take you into thick bushes and
eventually lead to the chaotic mound of boulders on top.
The slabs and rocks are heaped atop each other like a pile
of dirty laundry. Sorting your way through them is a slow process. Expect a
little bushwhacking. Only one major challenge remains: a tall, vertical rock cave
that you will have to climb up and through. Placing your left foot back on the rock behind you and your
right foot on the foothold toward the far right, you will have to reach up as
high as you can to locate a ledge for a grip. If you are unable to pull your
body up with the leverage of your back foot, the trail will end for you here. If you continue, a ledge a few boulders above provide an
impressive view of the backcountry below. I few years ago I didn't have the
skills or the confidence to negotiate the summit boulders. I was more than
happy to return.
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