Overview  Mt Skokomish's north face
Although Mount Skokomish is considered by some an unpopular destination due to rotten rock, it is by far in one of the more scenic areas of the Olympic Range. Bordered by alpine lakes and tarns, Mt Skokomish is filled with outstanding views of the interior range, as well as the Cascades to the east. Dominating the sky when viewed from the north, Mt Skokomish is an impressive massif, comprised of three major summits. Of these, the south peak is the highest. The Mountain is located on the Skokomish-Hamma Hamma River divide in the southeast portion of the Olympic National Park. The summit ridge is the boarder between the National Park and the National Forest, with the north half being inside the National Park and the southern portion being in the Olympic National forest (Skokomish Wilderness Area). The rock on Mt Skokomish is horribly rotten, and this makes scrambling quite an adventure. Approaching from Lake of the Angels is the most popular and easiest route up Mt Skokomish. But beware of the snow conditions. Snow lingers late and deep on Mt Skokomish's flanks and is very frail and weak. Once the eastern ridge is reached an easy traverse can be made to the summit of the south peak. The views are astounding from the summit, encompassing the Valhallas, Mt Olympus and Chimney Peak/O'neil Pass group to the west, Mt Anderon, Mt Deception and Mt Constance to the north, Mt Stone to the east and Mt Pershing, Mt's Washington/Ellinor and Majestic Mt Cruiser to the south.
Avalanche danger is extremely high on Mt Skokomish during the winter and spring months, but anytime is prime time for snow or rock to let loose. I've witnessed one such avalanche on the north face in mid-August. Always keep an eye on the conditions at all times and avoid snow travel as much as possible in the summer months.
Mtn Goat on Skokomish |
Mountain Goats often frequent the area. It's not uncommon to see a herd as large as 18 goats roaming around the base of Mt Skokomish in search of salt or fresh veggies. Getting There  East side of Mt Skokomish and Tarn
Red TapeParking passes are required and can be obtained at the Hoodsport Ranger station. Mt.Skokomish is located in the National Park so passes are required.
Contact: Hoodsport ranger station (360)877-5254
When To ClimbSpring is probably the best time, do to less scree travel, but the mountain is said to be do-able anytime of year. However Skokomish is notorious for avalanches in winter.
Camping  Lake of the Angels and the flanks of Mt Skokomish Mountain ConditionsH.P.R.S (360) 452-4501
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