Mount Pilchuck with an elevation of 5,344 ft (1,629 m) is a popular hiking destination within Mount Pilchuck State Park and the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest just 1.5 hours from Seattle. The name "Pilchuck" originates from the Native American word for a red water creek. After the challenging climb to the top, hikers get awarded with fantastic views onto Mount Baker, Mount Rainier, and the Olympics. Mount Pilchuck's summit features a historic fire lookout, now used by hikers. The trail is free from snow between June and October.
A short 5.5 mile trail with elevation gain of 2,300 feet is rather steep and rocky. It can be completed in about 5 hours. The trail head can be reached from the Mount Pilchuck Road off the Mountain Loop Highway. Hikers need a Northwest Forest Pass for parking at the trailhead. The cell reception on the trail is unreliable. Once you get near Granite Falls, beautiful wildflowers will be the prize for a difficult ascent.
Practical info
What is the recommended period for hiking Mount Pilchuck when the trail is free from snow?
Hiking Mount Pilchuck is best scheduled between June and October when the trail is free from snow while temperatures are warm and the views are amazing. Planning the hike properly is important since the terrain is rocky and steep. Hikers need to consider their fitness level before embarking on this trail. Show more
In which states can one find Mount Pilchuck?
Mount Pilchuck can be found in the Mount Pilchuck State Park and the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, Washington State. It is 5,344 feet above sea level, roughly 1.5 hours away from Seattle. The Mountain Loop Highway has the Mount Pilchuck Road that provides access to the hiking trailhead. Show more
How long is the trail leading to the Mount Pilchuck summit?
Ascending Mount Pilchuck will take hikers about five hours across 5.5 miles. The weather is volatile on the trail, and the terrain is challenging with steep elevation gains of about 2,300 feet. Hikers should be dressed appropriately to handle the terrain and the changing climate on the trail. Show more
Is there any parking restriction at the trailhead, and how accessible is it for hikers?
The Mount Pilchuck hiking trailhead requires hikers to present a Northwest Forest Pass for entrance, with options of either a day pass for about $5 or an annual pass for $30 per year. Except for the limited parking spaces, no other parking restrictions apply to hikers. Hikers are advised to arrive early or carpool to secure parking spots. Show more
Aside from Mount Pilchuck peak's panoramic views, what else can hikers see while on the trail?
As much as Mount Pilchuck has fantastic views from the peak, hikers will enjoy other exciting features such as the beautiful wildflowers, panoramic sceneries of the forest, and the rocky terrain is also an outstanding sight. Additionally, hikers may encounter some wildlife while on the trail. Mount Pilchuck´s summit also holds an exciting history from its fire lookout past, which hikers should take time to learn about. Show more
