Old Snowy Loop (Overnight)
Details
Join me for a backpack to the beautiful Snowgrass Flats and Old Snowy Mountain.
Distance: 18 miles
Elevation Gain: 5,000 ft
Difficulty: Hard
Let’s try to make the most of the last days before the autumn weather truly sets in. Old Snowy Mountain is an iconic and surprisingly accessible mountain in the Goat Rocks Wilderness. This trail is known for its alpine meadows, beautiful lakes, and high mountains. Despite the name, Old Snowy does not require heavy gear or significant snow travel to summit, and most of the distance is on a well maintained trail. The final segment is rockier and requires some minor (class 2) scrambling and rewards with amazing views of Rainier, Adams, and the rest of the southern Cascades. The adventurous may wish to take a side trip over to Ives Peak, which is known for unusual rock formations such as arches and large boulders, but may involve more challenging class 3+ scrambling. We can choose to camp by beautiful Goat Lake, or among the meadows near Snowgrass Flats.
You will need all the gear necessary for backpacking and the ability to carry it (30+ lbs). This is a loop hike, so expect to carry your full weight for most of the trip. A helmet is recommended for anyone who wants to scramble to Ives Peak. There should not be much snow on Old Snowy yet, but bring microspikes just in case.
This loop can be done clockwise or counter-clockwise, with camps in Snowgrass Flats or Goat Lake. The summits can be done on day 1 or day 2, depending on group preference and conditions. We can discuss the preferred route. One possible route is here:
https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/old-snowy-loop-6ffa9eb
Gear list:
Hiking Poles
Microspikes (just in case)
Clothes with multiple layers (expect overnight temps in the low 30s)
Helmet (for traverse to Ives)
Headlamp
Water (3-4L capacity)
Water Filter*
Food
GPS
Tent*
Sleeping Bag
Sleeping Pad
Stove* and Fuel
Pot and eating utensil
Sanitary Supplies (WAG bag required)
Bear Canister*
Any other ten essentials
*Starred items can be shared, most other things are individual.
Everyone will start out on the waitlist. Preference will be given to people I’ve hiked with in the past.
The weather can be very unpredictable this time of year and this event may be cancelled on short notice.
Riders will reimburse their drivers for gas.
Important: I am not a guide and this is not a guided trip. You and yourself alone are responsible for your own safety. Please know your abilities before signing up.