A short 1.5 mile hike up the Dude Mountain trail (1500' of elevation gain) to gain access to a beautiful alpine area. It is easily accessable in the late spring until late fall. Heavy snows can make the road unpassable. The trail is rated as Most difficult but my Doxie can make the trip. Make sure you have plenty of water.
When you reach the summit there are well beaten paths to take and explore. Use caution though as there are holes that can be covered by grasses. You are looking for a Mega Bison in a clump of very craggy and stunted trees. The wild flowers that grow up here are very beautiful. Find a large flat rock and have a snack, you earned it after this hike. Once on top you may see mountain goats, grouse and ptarmigan. On clear days you can see the mountains and waterways and gain access to Diana and Brown Mountains by walking the ridge line. The trail is half board walk with stairs and the upper half is switch back natural tread.
