For the 2016 Fall Outing, we chose to keep with the theme of family friendly for the fall version of the outing. I searched for a peak with reasonable stats and terrain for those that may want to bring their spouse or kid along. Then I added the wish for a nearby campground... oh, and good views are a must! This selection criteria led to Little Kane Peak, which sits on the divide between the Wildhorse and Kane creek drainages.

The hot and smoky summer took a dramatic change during the week of the outing and the central mountains were blasted with moisture and snow up high. To some, that probably changed their mind about joining us, but I am an optimist and thought "cool - no smoke and snow-clad views".

So we stuck with plans despite the forecast, knowing it would improve the day of the outing. As my wife and I rounded the corner on the Trail Creek Road on Friday evening, we could see snow on the peaks around us but at least the storm was letting up it seemed.

Steve, Margo, and Bruce were all at Wildhorse Campground when we arrived. As we setup camp, people slowly trickled in. Mostly people I have met before, but a few new faces.

As we hung out near the fire, the temperature dropped dramatically and chased most to bed; but more importantly the skies above were brilliantly clear and full of stars by the time Dylan, Todd and I called it a night.

The next morning we were a bit slow to move (typical of groups), but finally got to the trailhead, then finally got people moving after the cold wade across Wildhorse Creek. Some used river shoes, some barefoot, some just got their boots wet, while at least one wore some adorable rubber rain boots across.

We then set off up the Boulder Creek trail. Our first long break occurred where the Burnt Aspen trail splits from the Boulder Creek trail. The views of the Boulder Creek drainage and Devils Bedstead East from here were stunning!

We could see that the snow would start soon. Sure enough as we hiked up the switch backs on the Burnt Apsen trail, we were eventually in 4 or 5 inch deep snow by the time we reached the saddle between Purgatory and Little Kane peaks.

At the saddle, 5 of the group headed up to Purgatory Peak and the rest of us 11 headed over to Little Kane.

The ridge walk was fun, but got little long (and it was warm in the bright sun). Eventually we arrived at the summit, where we celebrated, took photos, chatted, etc. Everyone had a great time hanging out as we awaited the rest of the group to join us from Purgatory Peak.

Luckily it was warm and wind free as we waited. After the others arrived and they had a chance to rest, we snapped a group summit photo and then chose to descend directly to the trailhead. While steep, this saved us a lot of time and mileage, allowing us to finish the trip in just under 7 hours.

Turned out to be a great day with incredible scenery and weather. The group was amazing and everyone seemed happy and talkative. I would go so far as to say it was one of my better days in the mountains to date! Thanks to all that came, can't wait to hike with you all again!

From Trail Creek Road, turn onto Copper Basin Loop Road. After 2.25 miles, turn south on Wildhorse Canyon Road. Follow that road 5.5 miles and park at the signed Boulder Creek Trailhead.

Cross Wildhorse Creek and hike up the Boulder Creek trail for about 2.5 miles to where the Burnt Aspen trail leaves and switchbacks up the slopes above and leads to the saddle between Purgatory Peak and Little Kane Peak. Once at the saddle, take the ridge leading northeast to the top of Little Kane Peak - aka Peak 10184.