Hike to Johnstone Pass

Johnstone Pass is a diamond in a valley flush with hidden gems.

Turn east onto East Fork Big Wood River Road from Highway 75. Continue through the defunct mining town of Triumph where the road turns to dirt and becomes Forest Service Road 118. At the fork stay right. Pass the Sawmill and Federal Gulch Forest Service campgrounds. Drive to the end of the road, approximately 17 miles from Highway 75. A high clearance, four wheel drive vehicle is a must.

The Johnstone Pass trail begins at the north end of the small parking area. The trail is well cut, though not marked. The beginning elevation is 8,000 feet.

The first mile of the Johnstone Pass trail is largely flat as it meanders through a wide meadow surrounded by 11,000 foot peaks. Wildflowers are prolific from July to early August.

For those seeking a bigger challenge, the trail breaks into steep switchbacks ascending to Johnstone Pass at 10,000 feet. The last quarter mile cuts across a loose scree field which is not for the faint of heart, though passable. From the top of Johnstone Pass the view extends into Box Canyon (a trail drops down to the Box Lakes) and back into the East Fork of the Big Wood River drainage.

Note: the road to Johnstone Pass is often closed from early fall to early summer due to snow.