Sunset - Mount Pilchuck

Join us for a sunset-night challenging but rewarding hike to the historic fire lookout atop Mount Pilchuck! This 5.2mile round-trip trail takes us through lush old-growth forests before opening up to rocky alpine terrain with stunning panoramic views. From the summit, enjoy vistas of Mount Baker, Mount Rainier, Puget Sound, and the Olympics. Please be aware if the risks involved with hiking late and bring necessary Items listed below.

Mount Pilchuck Trailhead (Coordinates: 48.07029,-121.81474)

Hike Info
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 5.2 miles, roundtrip, out and back
Elevation Gain: 2,152 ft
Highest Elevation: 5535 ft.

Conditions
Unpaved forest road for 6.6 miles to get to the trailhead.
The weather forecast for Sunday is clear with a high of 90 degrees, so it's going to be very hot. Most of our ascent will in the shade, but bring 3 liters of water, minimum.

Parking Permit
For parking, a Northwest Forest Pass (or America the Beautiful Pass) is required. A NW Forest day pass is $5.
https://www.wta.org/go-outside/passes

Carpooling
We will meet at Green Lake P&R and arrange for carpools.
Riders MUST reimburse drivers for gas. Reimburse $25 per rider if 3 riders, 35 if 2 and 50 if one. Cash is preferred, or Venmo or Zelle.

What to Bring
Head lamp
Athletic clothing
Hiking shoes/boots
Water, snacks & food
Sun protection
Ten hiking essentials

Schedule
12:30 Pm – Meet at Green Lake P&R (carpool assignments)
1:00 PM – Depart for Trailhead
3:30 PM – Arrive at Mount Pilchuck Trailhead
3:45 Pm – Begin hike
6:30 Pm – Snack/Lunch break at the Lookout (enjoy views & photos!)
7:30 PM – Start return hike
9:00 PM – Back at trailhead

Links
AllTrails

Attendance
We try to keep our group size to around 6 - (more or less) as a courtesy to other hikers on the trail, and to reduce crowds and cars in the parking lot. The Going list may have a larger number to accommodate no-shows.

Folks on the Wait list may not attend until they are moved to the Going list. When folks drop from the Going list, people are added from the Wait list.

Attendees
Be sure to update your status if things change so others can attend.

⚠️ Disclaimer
This is a challenging night hike with potential hazards including but not limited to: difficult river crossings, rapidly changing weather, and walking on rocky moraines. By RSVPing, you acknowledge that you are responsible for your own safety, preparedness, and fitness level. You must assess your own ability and turn back if necessary. The group may splinter based on pace.

You agree to release, hold harmless, and indemnify the hike host from any claims, liabilities, or expenses arising from any injury or damage