Mount St John (11,430) is an easy climb in an uncrowded area of the park that is noted for its fine views. It is feasible to visit three alpine lakes either before or after the climb--Arrowhead Pool, Ramshead Lake, and Lake of the Crags.

After crossing Jenny Lake, we hike up Hanging Canyon to reach the base of one of the many parallel couloirs on the south face of Mount. St. John. Early season snow requires the use of an ice ax, and unless you are expert, a day at Exum's Snow School. Although it is an easy climb easy, the steepness plus the talus and scree demand agility and good balance.

The "summit" is really many summits, and the first ascent party had to use a transit to determine which one was actually the highest! You probably won't care which one it is but choose instead to wander about and enjoy the scenery.