📬 Mailbox Peak Loop – Old Trail Up, New Trail Down

Let's tackle Mailbox Peak this weekend as a fun challenge and training for any upcoming major climbs. We'll take the old trail up (steep and relentless) and cruise down the new trail. The summit views are breathtaking — Mount Rainier looming to the south, and the deep, wild Middle Fork Snoqualmie River Valley sprawled out below you.

📍 Hike Details (from AllTrails)

• Trail: Mailbox Peak Trail Loop
• Distance: ~7.8 miles
• Elevation Gain: ~3,992 ft
• Difficulty: Hard
• Route Type: Loop (old trail up / new trail down)
• Pass Required: Discover Pass (or America the Beautiful Pass)

🚗 Schedule & Meeting

• 7:00 AM – Meet at Green Lake Park & Ride (NE 65th St & I-5, Seattle)
  Carpool and depart promptly
• 7:45 AM – Quick stop at North Bend Safeway (bathrooms/snacks/coffee)
• 8:30 AM – Arrive at trailhead
• 12:30 PM – Summit lunch & mailbox photo op 📬
• 3:00 PM – Back to cars
• 4:00 PM – Estimated return to Green Lake P&R (later if we stop for a well-earned snack along the way or grab early dinner)

> Eastside folks: Feel free to self-arrange carpools from a convenient Park & Ride (Issaquah, Eastgate, etc.) and meet us at the North Bend Safeway or at the trailhead.

🎒 What to Bring

• Hiking boots (sturdy – it's steep and rocky)
• Trekking poles (highly recommended)
• 2-3 liters of water
• Lunch + snacks
• Sunscreen, hat, layers (windy at the top)
• Change of shoes, clothes, etc. for post-hike comfort

💰 Cost Sharing
$15 per person for gas + wear & tear. Cash or Venmo.

⚠️ Disclaimer
This is a group-organized hike, NOT a guided tour. The host is not a professional guide, trip leader, or outdoor expert. They are simply organizing a gathering of fellow hikers and are participating in the hike themselves.
You are solely responsible for your own safety, preparedness, and well-being throughout the entire event.