Distance: 5.6
Time: 3 hours 45 minutes
Elevation Gain: 2200
Difficulty: Hard
Potties: Yes 1 at trailhead
Pass required: NW Forest Pass
I hiked to the top of Mt. Pilchuck yesterday and it was amazing! This hike tends to be pretty crowded so hiking it on a weekday is a great idea. I wouldn't recommend this hike to children under 7 or anyone who has balance issues. The trail is extremely rocky and there is a high risk of falling or twisting an ankle.
In 1918 a fire outlook was built at the top of the mountain and was staffed until the 1960's. The supplies for the outlook had to be airlifted to the top of the mountain in order to build the shelter. So amazing!
Here are just a few pictures of the journey:)
Rocky trail |
View along the trail |
Sheer rock walls all along the path |
Yes, this is part of the path:0 |
Views from the clearing near the top |
Fire outlook and the rocks we had to climb to get there |
Views from the outlook |
Yes, you have to climb this to get to the top:) |
This is a must do hike and I think I always say that about all of the hikes I have done. There are so many amazing hiking adventures to be had in Washington state and I feel spoiled to be able to enjoy them regularly (during the summer anyways). If you have to pick one hike to do before the weather gets bad (I wouldn't do this in the rain or snow, too slippery) this would be at the top of my list.
To get here drive Hwy 92 to Granite Falls. Turn left on the Mountain loop hightway and follow the Mountain Loop Highway east. One mile past the Verlot Public Service Center, turn right onto Forest Road 42 immediately after crossing the "Blue Bridge." Drive 7 miles on the gravel road to the trailhead at the road end.
I hope you get a chance to do this hike before season's end. Have a great day and happy hiking!