This hike is well-described by Branch Whitney. The view of North Macks from the gravel road is pretty dramatic, and this hike is much tougher than the climb up South Macks, with much more opportunity for hand-over-hand class 3 (and marginal class 4). We went up the east side of the loop, and came down on the west side. The eastern route has some very steep slabs, not appropriate for descent.

There were lots of loose rocks in 2003, and there must be more in 2005. Spread out laterally on the descent, if possible, so you won't knock rocks on people below.

The drive to the parking area requires a vehicle with decent clearance. To reach the parking area, take i95 west of Vegas, past Lee Canyon, and turn south at the Cold Creek exit. Take the Cold Creek Road ~SW for 8.9 miles, then turn left (S) on a rougher gravel road. Take this rougher road S for 5.6 miles to the parking area just north of Mud Springs (at ~4.8 miles, the road forks; stay right).