Granite Mountain Lookout Hike

We’re heading to Granite Mountain Lookout Trail (Washington)— a stunning forest climb with creek crossings, mountain views, and beautiful alpine lakes waiting at the top. 🙌
Only about 1 hour from Seattle, but it feels like a full mountain escape.

Hike Overview
🔥 Hike Rating: Difficult/Hard
📏 Distance: ~8.6 miles round trip
⛰ Elevation Gain: ~3,800
🚶 Pace: Moderate with micro breaks to regroup (NOT fast paced)
🚗 Drive Time from Seattle: ~1 hour
🗺 Trailhead / Links
📍 Trailhead: Granite Mountain Trailhead (off I-90 near North Bend / Snoqualmie Pass)

Check out this trip report. https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-05-24.073300684912

🧭 Hike Details & Map:
Granite Mountain Trail on AllTrails
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington/granite-mountain-trail

https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/granite-mountain

Forcast
https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?textField1=47.397900&textField2=-121.486050

🚗📍 Schedule & Meeting
Meeting Location: Eastgate P&R
8:00 AM – Meet at Eastgate P&R
8:15 AM – Depart promptly (please be on time 🙏)
9:00 AM – Arrive at trailhead
9:15 AM – Begin hiking
3:00 PM – Return to trailhead (depending on pace + breaks)
4:00 PM – Estimated return to P&R
Times are estimates and may adjust based on group pace and conditions.
📲 WhatsApp Group (Carpool & Updates):
See Comments

🅿️ Parking Permit
🎫 Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful Pass required at the trailhead.

🚗 Carpool Arrangements
Coordinate via comments or WhatsApp.
💵 Suggested Carpool Fee: $15

🛡 Safety & Fitness
You are responsible for your own safety and preparedness.
Expect steady climbing, rocky/rooty sections, and possible creek crossings.
Be comfortable with ~8 miles and sustained elevation gain.

🎒 Bring the 10 Essentials
Hiking boots
Trekking poles
Headlamp + spare batteries
Waterproof / wind-resistant jacket
Layered clothing
2–3L water minimum
Food / snacks
Sunscreen + bug spray
First aid kit
Navigation

⚠️ Disclaimer
By RSVPing and attending, you acknowledge that you are fully responsible for your own safety. Know your limits and come prepared.