2. Breakneck Ridge –
Definitely the hardest hike on this list in terms of elevation gain in the shortest amount of time. Not for the faint of heart when it comes to heights, and there are minimal rock scramble parts to overcome. I would also advise doing this hike on a weekday because it can get packed on weekends. The trailhead is also on 9D just north of Cold Spring. It starts literally just north after a huge road tunnel that goes right under the trail you are about to climb. The white Breakneck Ridge trail starts off with a bang… you’re literally climbing right from the get go… and it doesn’t stop! You reach an American flag and POW flag and you are like, “cool I made it!” then look behind you and say, “crap.” You still have two more large ascents ahead of you. But, the payoff views are worth it! As you get to about the 1.7 mile I would suggest making a left down the red Breakneck Pass trail and meander down through a valley and finally make a left onto the yellow Wilkinson that will take you back to 9D. I would suggest taking this route down because most injuries occur when people try to descend down the steeper parts of this hike… be safe!
