Tuesday, July 22nd Sauk Mountain Hike #1

WOW!! This hike is very popular. I've just scheduled a second Sauk Mtn. hike for Wed., the 30th, I hope you can join us on that one if this is full.

The snow has melted (mostly), the wildflowers are blooming, and the skies are clear - that means it's time for hiking up Sauk Mountain!

This is a 4.2 mile out-and-back hike with 1,200 feet elevation gain. The hike is mostly switchbacks up a slope, with the upper portion a rocky trail and scramble. There might be a few small patches of snow so poles are advised if you have any doubt. The very end of the hike is a scramble up loose rocks on a very narrow trail, but this part is optional; you can wait just below where the views are great.

• No parking pass required.
• There is a privy available at trailhead.
• There are no trees on this hike and you will be exposed to the sun the whole way. Bring sunscreen and appropriate clothes/hats.
• Please, no dogs on this hike. The trail is narrow and steep, and the scramble is not suitable.

Overview: Pace will be moderate. This is also a very popular hike so expect others on the trail. We can have lunch at the top and we will take breaks for photo and hydration purposes. If it's clear, we will experience spectacular views of Puget Sound, the Olympics, the Cascade mountains including Rainier, Baker, Glacier... pretty much everything. We would like to stay together as one group for this hike.

Driving and carpooling: The trailhead is 1.5 hours from Bellingham and 1 hour from Sedro Woolley, and I would like to carpool. Please leave a comment if you plan to meet us at the trailhead.

• Bellingham: we'll meet at the Lake Samish Park & Ride @ 8:00AM and will leave @ 8:15 (I-5 exit 246, Google map)
• Sedro Woolley: we'll meet at the W Ferry St Parking lot @ 8:45 and will leave at 9:00AM (Google map)
• Trailhead: if you're meeting us at the trailhead @ 10:00AM, please leave a comment below so we don't wait for you at the carpool sites.
• Please expect to get back to town around 4:00 - 5:00 PM.

Important: the 8 mile gravel road to the trailhead is rough in places and a higher clearance vehicle is recommended. A recent trip report mentioned a Toyota Prius made over the rough stuff, so it's not too bad but still...

Directions to Trailhead: From I-5, head east 37 miles on Highway 20 and then take a left on Sauk Mountain Road (immediately before Rockport State Park). Travel up the steep Sauk Mountain Road (FS-1030) for 8 miles to the trailhead.

For more info, please see:
https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/sauk-mountain

Housekeeping:

• We will cancel for high winds or heavy monsoon rains but we will hike otherwise.
• You must sign-up and be on the “Going” list to participate.
• If you sign-up for this event, out of respect for the group and those on the wait list please make every effort to attend.
• Please practice leave-no-trace.

Disclaimer: We are not professional hiking guides or medical professionals. We are volunteers. You alone are 100% responsible for your own comfort and safety. By attending this hike you agree to these terms and do not hold hike organizer(s) liable for injuries and/or medical issues during or after this event.