The trail begins gradually and passes two waterfalls as you ascend.
Enjoy the Mineral King valley as you hike toward Farewell Gap.
Once you round the mineral-rich edge of Tulare Peak, you'll get your first view of Florence Peak towering over the landscape.
Ascend the switchbacks to 10,600 feet, passing the dam on your right. Great campsites lay just ahead of this area.
Relaxing by an alpine lake is the perfect rest and relaxation before or after a high-elevation climb.
Several wide switchbacks with an easy grade will take you up to Franklin Pass.
From the pass, you'll veer off trail to the right and head straight up the massive boulders of Florence's east ridge. Drop a pin in your GPS to note the trail's location for when you're down-climbing.
Soak in the impressive, panoramic views of the Great Western Divide from the summit before descending the ridge the way you came.