After skirting the base of the cliffs, we made our way diagonally upwards, looking for any reasonable weakness in the steep southeastern slopes of the peak. It didn't take long to find a small ridge, well-sprinkled with bushes, a few trees, and ledges. It was steep but not long, and soon we were on the open patches and lookout ledges near the top of King Mountain.
After a few rest breaks above the steep stuff, we walked the last easy bit over the gentle dome of King Mountain's summit to the actual highpoint. It isn't much more than a cleared area in the trees, but still, it's the summit. Therefore, a few photos and handshakes.
With the summit achieved, we continued west, aiming to hit a few more lookouts, then down the western ascent route (the way we most often come up when we do King Mountain). Along the way we stop at several of the good west / northwestward looking views.
Dr. Evils on King mtn summit
Traipsing along through forest
