Thorp-Sacajawea Connector

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On some maps this trail is part of what is called the Matterhorn-Sacajawea Trail, which runs along the Sacajawea-Matterhorn Ridge between those two peaks. You can descend this connector back to Thorp Creek but consider arranging a shuttle between the Hurricane Creek and Wallowa Lake trailheads so you can make a one-way traverse of both peaks and visit Ice Lake.

This is an alternative to the Ice Lake approach to reach the summit of Matterhorn and, after traversing the Sacajawea-Matterhorn Ridge, the summit of Sacajawea Peak. It is a longer and more challenging route than via Ice Lake but much less crowded, with excellent camp sites at the head of Thorp Creek. From these campsites, climb gradually south toward where the prow of Sacajawea's east ridge intersects the usually dry west fork of Thorp Creek. From here, an obvious trail ascends the ridge, climbing steadily and constantly until it levels out a little on the narrow ridge not far from the summit. The views north down Hurricane Creek and of Matterhorn to the south are magnificent.