We climbed Volcanic Ridge West Summit on September 15, 2018. The mission was to take a sunrise photo on top it and it was executed well. I only wish that there were some clouds there, which was an excuse for next attempt.
What we did was we first hiked to Minaret Lake from Devils Postpile. After having food, leave stove, food, bear canister and anything not useful on mountain behind. We carried tent, sleeping gears and enough water. The climb is through an obvious slope to a saddle below the peak. I consider this was an easy class 2. After we reached to saddle, we found a spot to set up tent. On next morning before sunrise, we finished the last part of the climbing to the summit.
Sunrise at Volcanic Ridge West Summit
Sunset at Volcanic Ridge West Slope