Freedom Peak 5.3.05

I had seen some trip reports stating that the Stafford Creek Trail was mostly snow free. The weather on the western crest seemed like it would improve as the day went on. I expected better weather on the eastern crest and since I had most of the day I thought why not climb Freedom Pk aka Little Navaho (pt 6442). Freedom Pk. ranks a moderate # 61 on the Back Court 100, thus it needed to be climbed. The plan was to jump off trail at around 4800ft where there is a creek crosses the trail. The slope is moderate and the area is quite open and attractive. There wasn't much snow and almost all of it could be avoided. I reached the ridge line around 6200ft and dropped pack. I picked my way the rest of the way to the summit mostly staying directly on the ridge line. I was hoping to find a summit register, but none was readily apparent. The weather was ideal broken sun and the temps in the mid 60's. I was expecting about a 6 hour round trip but was pleasantly suprised with a 4.5 hour car to car. The descent was quite enjoyable I merely plunge stepped in the soft soil making great time. The views are quite good well worth the effort.