High Lonesome Loop

At the Hessie Trailhead, follow the main dirt road. It is well signed and points you in the right direction. Continue as the dirt road becomes quite steep and rocky. At mile 1.4, you'll hit a trail marker for the Devils Thumb Bypass. Take this right turn onto singletrack and continue to climb at an easier and steady grade. You'll pass through open meadows and lush scenery. At mile 2.7, you'll continue straight on Devils Thumb Trail and start to climb a little more in earnest. The terrain will be rocky at first, but begins to even out as you reach the grassy areas of alpine lakes. Take in the scenery as you ascend and you'll be rewarded with waterfalls and wildflowers. Take a breather as the trail levels out by Jasper Lake and then Devil's Lake. As soon as you pass the end of Devil's Lake, the climbing begins in earnest. Through thick brush and very skinny singletrack, you'll quickly gain elevation to the top of the Divide. This may require some hands-on-knees hiking as you crest over the final pitches. Recover at the top by taking in the magnificent views. Hopefully, you have good weather and a storm isn't chasing you down. The trail will continue to traverse along the Divide for roughly 3 miles. Rounding a corner on the far side of the traverse, you'll drop into King Lake. You might even see some skiers coming down the glacier into the basin from this altitude. Start the fast descent as it quickly brings you off the divide into the meadows of King Lake. Just after mile 10, stay right and continue on King Lake Trail. In less than half a mile, you'll once again stay right to remain on King Lake Trail. At 14.5 miles, Devil's Thumb Trail will meet up with you, and continue straight on what is now Devil's Thumb Trail. Continue to maintain your straight course all the way down to the trailhead. You'll see the Devil's Thumb Bypass Trail on your left and know that you've completed your lollipop. Take your tired legs back across the rocky and steep dirt road that you began on, and you'll find yourself back at the Hessie Trailhead and your car.