Hike Throp Mountain

This loop offers outstanding rewards but demands serious effort in payment. The trail has suffered years of neglect, leaving the route rough. Add strenuous climbs to it and you have a hike that taxes even the toughest hikers. In return, hikers will find views that are unmatched in this part of the state. From the fire-lookout cabin atop the heather-carpeted peak, you can scan the horizon in every direction, picking out peaks and valleys throughout the Alpine Lakes Wilderness and south all the way to Mount Rainier (on clear days). The ridges rolling away from Thorp Mountain sport colorful flower meadows, and the blue pool of Kachess Lake sparkles in the deep valley at its foot.

Getting Started: Walk around the gate and walk 0.25 mile to a bridge over Thorp Creek. Cross the creek and turn right.

The trail is not maintained and much over growth to deal with. It starts off flat until you start you up hill climb to Little Joe Lake. You will have to contend with fallen trees. If you are lucky enough you will run into a few Elk who laying by the lake.The trail splits and stay to the left on trail 1330. This trail is difficult to follow, you will notice where trees and rocks block you from taking the wrong path. About 2.5 miles past Little Joe Lake you will find a road crossing. A good little spot to stop for a break and enjoy the views. Continue across the road to the Carin that leads you back to the trail. Another .4 miles you will need to make another left on trail number 1315.Follow the trail for 1.2 miles to you see the sign that says to Thorp Lake Trail number 1316, follow the trail for .4 miles and you will see a sign leading to Thorp Lake. From here it is only .2 miles to the lake. This is a good spot to renew you water source relax for a bit and soak up the sunshine and enjoy the lake.
Turn back around and follow your steps back to trail 1315. Make a left and follow it up for another .4 miles and make a right to head up the Thorp Mountain Lookout. You will have a full 360 view of the mountains and on a clear day of excellent view of Mount Rainier.
To get back to the parking lot follow you footsteps down to Thorp Lake. At the sign that says Thorp Lake 1/4 mile and Thorp Creek Trail, follow the Thorp Creek Trail to the parking lot for 2.4 miles.

Starting Elevation: 3562Ending Elevation 5854Elevation gained 411410.2 miles round trip

Driving Directions

From Seattle drive east on I-90 to take exit 80 (signed "Roslyn/Salmon la Sac"). Head north on Salmon la Sac Road (State Route 903) about 15 miles, passing through Roslyn and past Cle Elum Lake. Just past the upper end of the lake, turn left onto French Cabin Road (Forest Road 4308). Drive 3.25 miles up FR 4308 to FR 4312 on the right. Go right and drive 1.5 miles to another road junction, with FR 4312-121. This road is typically gated, so park here (don't block the gate).