Hike to Mount Pilchuck

The Mount Pilchuck lookout trail offers a variety of terrain through old growth forest and across granite boulder fields. From the lookout, enjoy views of Mt. Baker, Glacier Peak, Mt. Rainier, the Olympic Peninsula, Puget Sound, the San Juan Islands, and even the Space Needle if you bring your binoculars!

The first mile of trail leads you up switchbacks through a forest and across several streams. In the early summer, make sure and wear waterproof boots and bring an extra pair of socks. These streams can be wet and muddy to cross. Once out of the trees, the trail leads you up a rocky granite boulder field. Here, you can see the lookout perched on large granite rocks at the top. Continue to follow the trail and cairns, don't try to scramble up your own way. There's nothing like exploring a granite boulder field spotted with green trees and grass!

The trail narrows toward the top and leads you up several more switchbacks. To ascend to the lookout, scramble across a few boulders and climb up the wooden ladder. If the lookout is unlocked, make sure and check out the panorama map with all the names of surrounding peaks. The lookout is the perfect place for a refueling break before beginning the descent.

This hike is doable in every season with the proper equipment and weather conditions. If you're considering hiking Mt. Pilchuck in the winter or early spring, make sure and check with the Verlot ranger station for a trail and avalanche report!