Sunshine Peak via Redcloud Peak

The route begins and ends at the Silver Creek Trailhead after reaching the summits of Redcloud and Sunshine Peaks. From the trailhead, follow the Silver Creek Trail east as it climbs gradually through the forest. At 1.5 miles, keep straight, passing the Sunshine Peak Trail on the right, and continue climbing through a willow-lined basin. Around 2.6 miles, the trail begins climbing to the south, then ascends steep switchbacks into the upper basin. At 3.6 miles, reach the saddle around 13,000'. Turn right at the saddle and follow the ridge trail up rocky switchbacks to a false summit at 13,800'. Continue left along the red scree ridge to reach the Redcloud Peak summit at 4.5 miles. Crux: The steepest section runs from the basin at 12,400' up to the 13,000' saddle and on to the Redcloud Peak summit — sustained switchbacks on rocky trail with a false summit at 13,800' that deflates morale right before the final push. The route then drops to a 13,500' saddle before re-climbing to Sunshine, meaning the last real effort comes on already-tired legs. Resist any urge to shortcut down Sunshine's west face — it's steep, loose scree, and slower than retracing your steps. Descend the south ridge 500 vertical feet to the saddle, then climb 500 vertical feet along the ridge crest to reach Sunshine Peak at 5.8 miles. Retrace your steps back over Redcloud Peak to return.