Seattle Hiking Community

A high-country dreamscape unfolds on this unforgettable alpine trek. Starting from the lush meadows of Snowgrass Flats, the trail climbs gently through wildflower-strewn slopes and ancient forest, revealing sweeping views of Mount Adams and Rainier. As we ascend, the landscape transforms—jagged volcanic ridges, crystalline streams, and windswept tundra guide us toward the shimmering alpine jewel called Goat Lake.

Nestled beneath the towering spires of the Goat Rocks, Goat Lake is a pristine alpine basin, often rimmed with lingering snow and echoing silence. Mountain goats roam the ridgelines, and the air is crisp with elevation and solitude. It’s a place that feels carved from myth — raw, remote, and achingly beautiful.

Goat Rocks
Gifford Pinchot National Forest in the South Cascades of Washington spans an area larger than the state of Delaware - imagine an entire state engulfed by towering evergreens, volcanic peaks, and glacier-fed rivers! The centerpiece of this area is the stunning Goat Rocks Wilderness - the crown jewel of the South Cascades. Mountain goats are abundant here in this sprawling wilderness named for them.

Hike Stats
Length: 14 miles roundtrip
Route Type: Loop Trail
Terrain: Forested, Rocky, Rugged, Open Tundra
Elevation Range: 4559' to 7122'
Elevation Gain: 3,647'
Difficulty: Moderate | Hard

Trail Map
WTA
Trail Blog
Ten Essential Items

Route
We will follow a counter-clockwise loop beginning at the Berry Patch Trailhead traveling through Snowgrass Flats, PCT, outer fringes of Cispus Basin, up-close views of Old Snowy Mountain and Packwood Glacier, Goat Lake Basin, Jordan Basin and Goat Ridge back to the trailhead. See the Trail Map link above.

For those hikers who are looking for a shorter adventure, there are multiple options with varying degrees of length and difficulty available here as described in the WTA link above. 8.2 miles round trip to lower Snowgrass Flats, 10 miles roundtrip to the PCT, and 13 miles roundtrip to Goat Lake. Take your pick and carpool accordingly.

Trailhead Location
Berry Patch Trailhead (Trail 95)
National Forest Road 2150-040
Randle, WA 98377
GPS: 46.46676, -121.52779

Snowgrass Trailhead (Trail 96)
National Forest Road 2150-405
Randle, WA 98377
GPS: 46.46356, -121.51883

General Information and Directions
This is an immensely popular area on summer weekends and parking here fills up quickly. Arrive early and park at either of the 2 lots above (12 minute walk apart from each other) depending on available parking. A short connector trail connects Trail 95 and 96.

Schedule
7:30 AM - 8:00 AM: Arrive at the Trailhead
8:00 AM: Boots on the trail
4:00 PM: Back at the Trailhead
Hiking Time: 8 hours, including breaks and lunch. Moderate Pace.

Logistics
We will meet at the trailhead per the schedule above. Hikers can self-organize carpools from any location, as needed. Use the messaging system and comments below to coordinate rides. Seattle area hikers should leave latest by 4:30 AM (average driving time 3 hours, 30 minutes). A Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful Pass is required to park a vehicle at this trailhead. Alternatively, a Day Use fee can be paid.

Day Use: $5 per vehicle per day
Day use fee payment options: Cash, Check, Scan & Pay or a valid Recreation Pass. Download the recreation dot gov mobile app before your trip to have the ability to scan & pay digitally on-site.

Disclaimer
This hike traverses rugged terrain, potentially variable weather conditions, and remote wilderness areas. Before committing, please carefully evaluate your physical fitness, experience level, and preparedness.

I am not a guide. By choosing to participate, you acknowledge the inherent risks of backcountry travel and accept full responsibility for your safety and decisions. Always carry the Ten Essentials, check current trail and weather conditions, and let someone know your itinerary.