Overview
Mount Dickerman Summit June 29, 2006
Named after mining engineer Alton L. Dickerson who examined the Monte Cristo mines in 1891. This peak stands east of the South Fork Stillaguamish, just north of the Barlow Pass area on the Mountain Loop highway east of Granite Falls. The first ascent was completed by in 1897 be Louis C. Fletcher who was working for the USGS. The north face was first ascended August 21, 1970 by Dallas Kloke and David Seman via. the Perry Creek Trail.
Mount Dickerman (trail no. 710) is a simple early season hike that begins at 1710 feet at trailhead and rises 4013 feet in 4.1 miles. There are many switchbacks after the first quarter mile with moderate elevation gain. 2 miles into the hike the undisturbed forest changes into Alaksa cedars and subalpine furs. During the summer, the next half mile is one of the most popular blueberry stashes in Northern Cascades. Be warned that the temptation to pick makes hiking progress slow going. In the Fall, the colors displayed by alpine meadow wildflowers are stunning and brilliant. The meadows begin near 4500 feet.
There are several false summits on the way up, and the top ridge has 2 high points. On clear days, the summit affords majestic 360 degree views of surrounding Northern Cascade peaks including Glacier Peak, Sloan Peak, Vesper Peak, Mt Baker, Mt Shuksan, Three Fingers, Mt Pugh, Whitehorse, Big Four, and Del Campo Peak. Be careful on the summit. That's a 450 foot cliff with the Perry Creek forest far below.
Getting There
The Summit Cornice May, 2006.
From Everette take highway 92 to the town of Granite Falls turn left (north) at the east end of town onto the Mountain Loop highway. 16.3 miles past the Public Service Center in Verlot there is a large trailhead parking area on the left side of the road. This is on the left side of the road, 1.6 miles beyond the Big Four picnic area. For more details you can purchase Green Trails Map # 111. Don't forget that a Northwest Forest Pass is required to park a car at the established trailhead.
When to climb
Snow can still be encountered in the month of May. It is more difficult of a hike in the winter months, and map and compass knowledge is required, as there are many cliff drop off's and large cornices. ***Crampons and Ice Axe are recommended in the early season. Snowshoes are a must. **** Even experienced climbers may make mistakes under heavy winter conditions. Unfortunately, 2006 proved to be a tragic year for Mt. Dickerman. Two seasoned hikers were killed on the mountain within a few days of each other on February 10 and February 19. PLEASE BE CAREFUL! Do not choose this mountain as a winter day hike if you are not experienced. If you are experienced, use extreme caution. |  |  |  |  |
Red Tape
This is a high risk area for forest fires, so no campfires are allowed anywhere on trail or at the summit. A Northwest Forest Pass is required for vehicle parking at the trailhead ($5/ day, or $30 annual).Camping
Officially no camping is allowed, but there is evidence suggesting that a couple of rule breakers bring their tents or bivouac sacks with them. I won't tell if you don't but please respect the mountain and help keep it pristine. Pack it in pack it out.Mountain Conditions
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Verlot Ranger Station (360) 691-7791
(open for summer hours only)
33515 Mountain Loop Highway
Granite Falls, WA 98252
- The USDA Forest Service report of current conditions on all Mountain Loop highway trails including Mount Dickerman.
- Hiker-submitted reports on current conditions of the trails from the The Washington Trails Association.
- Washington Mountain Cameras directly showing conditions at some of the major locations might help give you and idea of what kind of snow levels expect above 3000 feet.
Mount Dickerman Summit September 1, 2005
Road Conditions
Jon Vanderheyden, District Ranger(360) 856-5700 ext 515
810 State Route 20
Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284
Monday-Friday 8 am - 4:30 pm
- Detailed forest Road Conditions Report in the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest.
External Links
- Seattle P.I.
Getaways Column
- Michael Stanton's trip report
2/11/2001
- Graham Priestley's trip report
Report with tons of pictures.. Date of hike - 2/27/05
- Mt. Dickerman on TrailsNW.com
Trail description and photo of Mount Dickerman, WA.
