The trail follows Grizzly Creek and ascends steeply for the first 1/2 of a milethrough a series of switchbacks. The next 1 1/2 miles are a gradual ascent through alternating pine and fir forests and wildflower meadows. A stream crossing beyond the last meadow can easily be negotiated except during spring runoff. For the next 1 1/2 miles, the trail ascends a steep rocky shelf then winds through alpine tundra toward a long hillside traverse which ends on aknoll hiding Grizzly Lake just ahead.