Overview
Route 1
This is a climb that I think is overlooked by many but, is well worth the while. Approach via the S side Mt Townsend trail #839, at the Townsend/Silver Lake junction turn left and follow trail to above Camp Windy. The trail continues up to the saddle between Mount Townsend and Welch peaks. At the saddle go south along the ridgeline for 1/2 mile to the highest peak. There are a couple of vertical scrambles with enough exposure to remind you that your not on a day hike. Plenty of rotten Olympic rock, watch for rockfall. Great views, if the clouds allow it.
Getting There
Mt. Townsend trail #839 starts 15
miles northwest of Quilcene on Forest Service
Road #2760 or 17 miles at FS Road #190. One
mile south of Quilcene, turn right onto Penny
Creek Road for 1.4 miles staying left at the Y
continue on to the FS boundary and paved FS
Road #27. Proceed on FS #27 another 10.6
miles to FS Road #2760. Follow #2760 for 0.7
mile to the lower trailhead. To go to the upper
trailhead stay on #27 one more mile and turn left
onto Road #190. Follow #190 one mile to the
small trailhead parking lot at the end of the road.
Red Tape
PASS NOT REQUIRED: A Northwest
Forest Pass or a Golden Passport (Eagle,
Access or Age) is not required for parking
at this trailhead.
When To Climb
spring-fall
Camping
Camping is allowed just about anywhere, but is rarely done since this is a day climb.
Mountain Conditions
Hood Canal Ranger District Ð Quilcene Office
295142 Highway 101 S. P.O. Box 280
Quilcene, WA 98376 (360) 765-2200
Images
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