This easy trail hike up this craggy peak offers one of the best views, for the effort, west of North Cascades National Park. Majestic vistas of high peaks and valleys all about this part of Washington State makes this a good objective for beginner climbers and hikers. No special vehicle is needed to take the winding dirt or gravel road to the high trailhead. The hike took me an hour and 9 minutes to reach the former lookout site, with gorgeous summertime wildflower displays all along the way. The true highpoint may offer a short scrambling challenge, with a bump to climb over. The views from the end of the trail are about the same, though.

Getting There

Drive WA 20 to the vicinity of Rockport State Park, about 38 miles east of Interstate 5. A easily missed dirt road just west of the park sign heads north from WA 20. Signed "Sauk Mountain Road," take this dirt road about 6 miles to the high trailhead, with a wooden outhouse and sign, "Sauk Mt. Trailhead" there. The view from here is worth the drive for non-hikers. It is about two miles further, by sometimes steep trail, to the top of this peak, with some 1,100 feet of gain.

There are two junctions to make a decision which way to turn. Please consult a good map to determine the correct way to go. One is on the road, and another junction is on the trail. Concisely, you head up.

Red Tape

This peak is in the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. No permits are needed, and there are no fees, except for maybe the Pacific Northwest Forest Pass. A Golden Eagle Pass will suffice, too, then, I think.

Camping

There is USFS camping along the WA 20 highway, and at the Rockport State Park. The nearest major town is Sedro-Woolley, and some smaller towns may offer motels for lodging. There's gas, food, and drink available in Concrete, WA.

External Links

2006 Pacific Northwest Loop

Images



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