North Gardner Mountain is the high point of Okanogan County, which is on the east side of the Cascade Crest bordering British Columbia. It is connected to the 59-foot shorter Gardner Mountain by a high ridge. These two mountains are themselves not as spectacular as their nearby neighbors such as Silver Star Mountain and Kangaroo Ridge because of their softer, more erodible rock. However, the view of spectacular mountains to the west and south is phenomenal from this vantage point, and very worth the climb. Gardner and North Gardner can be easily done in one day from a camp at Gardner Meadows.

The view from the summit of North Gardner Mountain

Getting There

Thanks to Redwic for providing updated driving directions.

1) Head south through Winthrop along Highway 20.
2) Shortly after crossing a small bridge, turn right onto Twin Lakes Road.
3) After 1.3 miles, turn right onto Wolf Creek Road.
4) After 2.8 miles on Wolf Creek Road, turn left onto Left Fork Wolf Creek Road.
5) After 3.8 miles, the road forks. Veer left at the fork, continuing another 0.6 miles to the Wolf Creek Trailhead and large parking area.

High On The South Ridge

Red Tape

All trails and some picnic areas and campsites in the Okanogan National Forest require a regional pass costing $5/day or $30/year. Golden Age and Golden Access Passport holders may purchase the above pass at a 50% discount. The Golden Eagle Passport will not apply to the Regional Northwest Forest Pass. You can get them at any Pacific Northwest forest service office or ranger station, or it can also be purchased online from the Washington Trails Association. Click here for more information about the Northwest Forest Pass.

When To Climb

Optimal conditions for climbing North Gardner Mountain occur from July through September, depending on snow and weather conditions.

Camping

Camping is allowed in the Lake Chelan - Sawtooth Wilderness. There are numerous forest camps in the Okanogan National Forest. Click here for more information.

Mountain Conditions

For up-to-date information, contact the Methow Valley Ranger District Visitor Information Center, Building 49, Highway 20, 24 West Chewuch Road, Winthrop, WA 98862, 509-996-4000.

Images



[ View Gallery - 69 More Images ]