Overview
On a clear day the scramble up Gothic Peak yields an inspiring panorama of the mountainous terrain in western Washington. Located at the SE bend of the Mountain Loop Highway, the summit seems ideally centered in the Cascades: Baker and Shuksan stand out to the north; Del Campo, Sloan, and Glacier are arrayed to the east; Stuart and Mount Daniel beckon on the southeast horizon; Rainier looms to the south; and Pilchuck and the Olympics support the evening sun. Despite the view potential and the 4th class summit block moves, the peak is rarely crowded because the approach is via a steep hike to Gothic Basin, often with an overnight load.
Getting There
Ascend the southern Mountain Loop Highway 19.5 miles from the Verlot ranger station to Barlow Pass. Park and proceed past the gate and 1.2 miles up the Monte Cristo road. About 10 meters before the first bridge over the south fork of the Sauk river, find the trailhead on the right with outhouse and register.
Hike the gently rolling riverbank trail 0.6 miles to a junction with Weeden Creek Trail at 2500'. The grade increases in open forest switchbacks for 1.5 miles to a series of stream crossings in picturesque declivities. Enjoy the views across the valley to Silvertip Peak (has anyone climbed that clean red cliff face?!) as you struggle/scramble up steep trail for another 1.2 miles. Then catch your breath on the less steep final 0.5 miles to a col and Gothic Basin (5000'). Follow boot tracks up the Basin about 0.5 mile to Foggy Lake (5280').
Red Tape
A Northwest Forest Pass is required for parking at Barlow Pass. You must be a member of the Monte Cristo Preservation Trust to acquire a key to the gate, enabling you to drive Monte Cristo Road from Barlow Pass to Twin Bridge Camp (1.2 miles from 2360' to 2300'). The first half of the trail is in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest; the latter half, including Gothic Basin and Gothic Peak are on Department of Natural Resources land.
When To Climb
Gothic Basin and Peak are generally snow-free from late June through mid-October. The standard route could conceivably be skied, except for the summit block (single pitch, 4th class with stubby pines) which might warrant crampons and/or an ice axe.
Camping
Camping is allowed and common in Gothic Basin, primarily on the south shores of Foggy Lake. If it is crowded, good camps and views can be found about 100 meters higher on the SE ridge of Gothic Peak.
Mountain Conditions
The Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest Gothic Basin web site is a good source of general information, including weather and trail conditions.
Images
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