Near Josie's Ridge
Descending Josie's Ridge from the Snow King summit.

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Hike Route

Josie's Ridge

5.0 (1 Rating)
Steep, short, with Teton views: A local classic.
2.8
mi
Distance
1,044
ft
Gain
strenuous
Difficulty
Family FriendlyViewsWildlife

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
2.81mi
Distance
1,044ft
Elevation Gain
1,044ft
Elevation Loss
55%
Max Grade
7,174ft
High Point
6,141ft
Low Point
Path Type
There and Back
Description
Park on Elk Run Ln just behind the big post office. Look for the Russ Garaman Pathway which begins under the wooden arch. The two-lane pedway meanders along Flat Creek. Keep your eye out for moose here. Once across the bridge, find the trail that ascends the mountain just to the right of the trail information sign.Josie's Ridge Trail at first seems moderate, winding through the sagebrush, but then it starts to climb steeply. The trail maintains an aggressive grade as it switchbacks up the ridge. The sun exposed slope becomes wooded about three-quarters the way up. Finally, a break from the leg-burning gradient is found at the top of the ridge. Enjoy the views from here;they are some of the best in the valley!The route described here turns back after the initial summit. If more trail time is in order, you can make a 5-mile loop by continuing on the following route: Stay on Josie's Ridge #4027 to the top of Snow King resort then locate the Summit Trail to take downhill. Found just past the gondola, it's a wide road that steeply switchbacks the mountain. After the 5th switchback down, a sign for Sink or Swim #4031 Trail appears. Take Sink or Swim west (left) across the the north face to KC Trail #4032. The KC Trail will bring you back to the trail information sign at the base of Josie's.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
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Contributors
Justin Bowen