by Dave_Ayers » Fri Sep 12, 2014 12:57 pm
I've done that semi-loop both directions. I agree with balzaccom, it's a scenic hike and the 1000 Island/Garnet area is superb if you can swing the mileage or add another day.
Koip Pass on the way out is ~12,250. The switchbacks north of the pass are something to experience. It's well worth it to bag Koip Peak (~12,962) which is only ~700 feet of climbing up from the pass. You might also climb Kuna Peak (13,002) from Koip if you have the energy.
I didn't catch when you are starting out. Hopefully the smoke will have subsided by the time you are up there.