Basalt Amphitheater Hike

There are a number of basalt bluffs surrounding McConnell Hill and trails go by the ones on the west and southwest sides, but there is a set on the northeast corner too, forming a kind of “basalt amphitheater.” To get to the site, the route goes around the east side of Stake Lake, then turns onto trails to get to Sidewinder on the north side of the hill.

A faint trail leads off Sidewinder to the site. The trail was obvious and it was flagged, but there were many fallen trees to go over, under, or around. In past years it was kept open, but at this point, it is a challenging route. Once at the amphitheater, exploration of the slopes and basalt bluffs is possible (without windfall). I have even climbed to the top and linked up with the Bushwhacker Trail above. This is an interesting spot, one which few people know. A few photos are provided here. Click an image for a lightbox view and a caption.