Mount Pilchuck Lookout Hike

Join us for a classic Washington hike to the historic fire lookout atop Mount Pilchuck! This trail delivers forest hiking, rocky terrain, sweeping mountain views, and one of the most iconic lookout towers in the state.

This is a moderately strenuous hike with steady elevation gain, rough terrain near the summit, and potentially lingering snow depending on conditions. Please read the full event details carefully before signing up.

Meet up location:
Ash Way Park-and-Ride Lot
16327 Ash Way Lynnwood, WA 98087
Meet Time: 7:00 AM sharp
Departure Time: 7:10 AM
Please arrive early enough to organize carpools and gear.

Hike Details
Destination: Mount Pilchuck
Distance: ~5.4 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: ~2,300 feet
Highest Elevation: ~5,300 feet
Difficulty: Moderate / Moderately Strenuous
Pace: Steady with regrouping at key junctions
Trail Type: Out-and-back
Estimated Hiking Time: 4–6 hours, depending on group pace and summit conditions
Toilet at trailhead
Parking Pass: America the Beautiful pass or Northwest Forest Pass

Links
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington/mount-pilchuck-trail
https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-05-21.125141764132
"Road opened last weekend, contrary to what the trail listing says on here."
https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/mount-pilchuck
"The road to Mount Pilchuck is closed at the Heather Lake trailhead for the winter."

This trail includes:
Snow patches!
Forested switchbacks
Rocky and uneven terrain
Some scrambling near the summit
Exposure near the lookout

Tentative Itinerary
7:00 AM — Meet at Ash Way Park-and-Ride
7:10 AM — Depart for trailhead
8:45–9:00 AM — Arrive at trailhead / prepare gear
9:00 AM — Begin hike
11:30 AM–12:30 PM — Summit and lunch break
2:30–3:30 PM — Return to trailhead
5:00 PM (approx.) — Return to Ash Way Park-and-Ride

Times are estimates and may vary depending on traffic, weather, trail conditions, and group pace.

Please come prepared for changing mountain conditions.

Strongly Recommended
Microspikes and trekking poles and gaiters

Drivers are appreciated!

Essentials
Sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes
Water (minimum 2 liters recommended)
Lunch and snacks
Layered clothing
Warm summit layer
Sun protection
Headlamp or flashlight
Extra socks
Small first aid kit
Navigation app or downloaded map

Suggested rider contribution: approximately $15–20 depending on vehicle and number of passengers.

A valid Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful Pass may be required at the trailhead.

Important Notes
This event is for hikers comfortable with sustained uphill hiking and uneven terrain.
Please know your fitness level before signing up.
Anyone arriving after departure time may need to drive separately.
Leave No Trace