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    The famous summit rock
    Bao-Yen T.

    One of my favorite hikes in the Northern Cascades! Easy enough with some challenging parts. I can see why this is such a popular hike. It is relatively short hike with panoramic views and a historical fire lookout at the summit. Knowing that it is rather busy, I decided to come early on a weekday to beat the heat and the crowd. Difficulty: Moderate (because it was very rocky) Elevation gain: 2300 ft Length: 6 miles round trip Time: 1 hr 45 mins up, 1 hr 30 mins down Drive: It's about a 2 hour drive from Seattle. The Mount Pilchuck road is paved up until you reach FR 42. The last mile or two on that road is in horrible condition. Unpaved and contains large potholes, so drive with caution. Parking: Larger parking lot. Probably can fit 50 cars or so. One outhouse toilet and picnic table available. Trail: Overall trail is in good condition and easy to follow for the most part. The trail starts off in the sheltering forest for the first mile/mile in a half. With a mild to moderate steady grade incline, the trail consists of switchbacks, rocks, roots and stairs. After exiting the forest you will then proceed through the very rocky and open terrain for about another 1.5-2 miles. Hardly any shade in this area. You can catch a glimpse of the top of the summit. It may look challenging with a lot of elevation gain but trust me, it's not that bad. The incline grade during this part is pretty steady and mild. This was the most challenging part of the hike, not because it was steep but because of all the gladiator rocks. Some of the rocks are very loose so becareful and watch your footing. This part slowed down my time because some parts of the trail weren't so defined but there are many signs around stating the wrong way. The last part before reaching the lookout requires a scramble with all fours. The rocks are very large and easy to step on. Nothing to difficult. I very much enjoyed this trail because of all the variations that it had to offer. Endless switchbacks can be weary. Crowds: As we were hiking up, there were about 15 people coming down. When we reached the summit, we were the only ones there. A few minutes after that, about 10 more people made it up. As we were descending down, we probably past about 40-50 people coming up. I am glad that we came on a weekday. The lookout isn't that spacious so it would have been very packed. View: Beautiful, amazing, picturesque panoramic views of Mount Baker, Mount Rainier and the Olympics. The lookout was very nice and relaxing because it provided shade underneath the hot sun. We came on a very clear and sunny day so the weather and views were perfect. Bugs: So many annoying bugs on this trail. Mosquitoes, flies and gnats! Bring bug spray! Tips: Most of the trail is exposed so bring sunblock! *Northwest Forest Pass required*

    Anh L.

    One of the best hikes in the North Cascades! This is another relatively popular hike, so I would definitely go early in the morning or on a weekday. I love this hike because It is relatively short - only about 6 miles RT and It took me about 4 hours total to go up and down with a lunch break in between. I also love it because it's one of the few hikes out there that has an old lookout tower at the top. Although it's a short hike, the 360 mountainous view at the top is breathtaking! As an intermediate hiker, I didn't find this too difficult. However, it can be rough in the heat since most of the trail is rocky and exposed. There is some light rock scrambling so wear hiking shoes with good traction! I would pack some bug spray as well since there are many mosquitoes flying around during the spring/summer. The trail itself is in excellent condition, however, the road to the trailhead is awful. It is about 1.5 miles off the Mt Loop Highway, which doesn't seem too far, but the road is unpaved and full of potholes. Definitely drive slow if you have a low clearance vehicle. The best time to go is starting in April-May when most of the snow has cleared.

    My friend almost pissed in her pants when I did this!
    Thyda S.

    One of my absolute most favorite hikes! Although I am not an expert hiker, I love to hike. Heck... I never even used a pair of hiking shoes before (although I have a pair that is just waiting to be used). I hiked Mt. Pilchuck a couple of years back. One of my friends actually found it online and I was sort of discouraged because she told me a short story about a body being found there or something like that. I was creeped out... but today, I am so glad I never backed out on it (although I almost did). It is not an easy hike... thats for sure. However, it is not extremely difficult either (if I can do it anyone can). I hiked this in the summer when there wasn't any snow (not that I can remember, anyway). The view at the top is breath taking and worth the hard work. It is one of my most memorable hikes (hence the pictures). I just recommended this place back to my friends. If I was to do another hike in Washington, I wouldn't mind doing this one. And if I don't come back after my hike, it is probably because of the attempt of another pose on the edge of the highest rock there (again).

    Mt Pilchuck lookout tower
    Bill J.

    Very challenging hike, especially on a hot day. The views from the lookout is a great reward for accomplishing the challenges. What makes this hike so challenging is the terrain, very very very rocky, and the exposure to the hot sun. Be prepared with hiking boots, sunscreen, and bug spray. Very popular place, so I recommend starting early. The road to the trailhead is partially paved, but when not paved has mega potholes so be prepared! We had no problem in our SUV but saw a lowered car having serious challenges...LOL. Great hike for dogs too, but unless you go with a companion, your dog likely won't get into the lookout tower as that's rock climbing action! Also, you'll need a WSF pass from Verlot. The Discovery Pass is not accepted!

    Krista S.

    Great hike! Stunning views! The terrain makes for medium skill in hiking. Try to go when it's not busy for the best photos up top! The bugs were the only downer. I had bug spray on though it was a combo of essential oils and they would not stop bothering me. Never bit but they would just bounce off my body so I couldn't sit still for long without going crazy!

    Top!
    Alexa O.

    My new fave hike!! But man am I not doing it for a while! I'm so sore lol Hike took us about 5 hours round trip (took an hour break at the top). This was the longest hike I've ever done but I thought the view was sooo worth it!! I felt like I was on top of the world! Tips: - wear proper hiking shoes! The bottom of the hike is flat/wet but as you get closer to the top the flat trail disappears and you are legit climbing over boulders! - 4 wheel drive is a must to get to the trail! Beware of the many pot holes on the 3 mile trail to get to the hiking trail - lots of water and food!! -light jacket as it gets pretty windy at the top!!

    Sunset from the lookout
    Nicholas H.

    This is my favorite place in Washington. I have a done about 50 hikes around the western part of the state since i moved here last year and this one is my favorite. It is, what I call, close to the north sound and once you get to Mountain Loop highway the drive is outstanding. If you want to make a full day of it make sure to keep your ears to the ground for the Ice Cave trail to reopen. About Mt Pilchuck though, the trail starts off ascending up a wooded dirt, well maintained trail. About 20-30 minutes in you will start getting more rocks as you make your way out of the forest. The trail only goes up so expect no relief. That being said I am in average shape and I find this hike the perfect workout. You really feel good afterwards without feeling you overexerted yourself. I did this about 5 times last year with my last time being in November but too much snow forced me to turn around about .25 from the lookout. The trail disappeared and it would have been rather risky to continue. Plan 4-5 hours and bring lots of water and snacks. Pro tip: You can spend the night in the lookout, you can bring your dog, and you can expect a MASSIVE amount of people if you go on the weekends in the summer or fall (I only go on a weekday). Just have your wireless boombox handy to annoy the hikers who can't bother to say hello back to you.

    Absolutely GORGEOUS!! I did this hike yesterday. It was my first time doing it and I'm surprised I haven't done it before. It's one of the best hikes I've done! The hike itself is fairly easy and fun :) And the view is to die for.

    Above the clouds
    Anushka B.

    If you don't have wings, relax. Thank god for your legs and climb mt. Pilchuk. Gradually you will go to the lookout tower where you will be above the clouds. Breathe. See. Feel. Spread your limbs and feel like a bird but pls do not jump- you have legs and not wings so you will have to come down which takes more time than going up - wear hiking boots- it's a very rocky trail - carry sunscreen, hats and loads of water coz it's not your regular Washington rainforest trail - carry food- remember you're not a bird! A lunch at the top is nice - dogs on leash : I saw some without so I guess it works - average hiker like me- be prepared to be sore the next day! A little bit coz you do have legs which take you to a moment to feel like an eagle perched on the top! - common sense - if u decide to see the sunset, take torch light to descend because it's a very rocky trail - have fun! It's a very beautiful hike with scenic lookouts! Learn to pause, breathe and unwind and appreciate the Beauty of our great northwest

    Libby C.

    This hike is 57 miles from Seattle. I don't have a very good point of reference for its difficulty because I hiked it in a foot of snow, so it was pretty damn hard that day. Absolutely gorgeous, though. It's 6 miles out and back. I wimped out at the end, but my boyfriend took some photos from the top, so I sort of got to see it.

    The view of Mt. Baker from Mt. Pilchuck
    Crys G.

    Gorgeous hike. There was cloud cover which we broke through one mile up. It was sunny from then on. We went on a Saturday in October; it was still warm enough to wear a t-shirt and shorts. We started up the mountain around 2. We took our time. It was a pretty steep hike for being labeled easy/moderate by hiking websites. I like to be outdoors but am not in great shape. The hike wore me out but the view from the top was definitely worth it. The last half mile was hard to finish but i'm glad I made it to the top. It felt almost surreal taking in the 360 view. My boyfriend and I took about 4 hours to do the hike, up and down, but we were going slow to enjoy the experience. I would definitely recommend going spring/summer/fall. I will most definitely take my dad on this hike when he comes in the spring.

    Mt Pilchuck

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    Ask the Community - Mount Pilchuck

    Review Highlights - Mount Pilchuck

    Finally, when you get to the lookout tower, this is where your bouldering/rock climbing skills will be tested.

    Mentioned in 5 reviews

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    Mount Pilchuck State Park

    Mount Pilchuck State Park

    4.6(14 reviews)
    45.0 km

    The road up to the trail is in much better shape than I was expecting and when I arrived at 8:30 am…read moreon a sunny Friday, there were plenty of parking spaces left. The trail is very well signaled and maintained. Absolutely GORGEOUS views, challenging enough but not one of those hikes you never want to do again. And the payoff is worth it 100 times.

    This hike is not for the faint of heart. I almost turned back 3 times and the first was just…read moredriving up there! This hike however will reward you with beautiful views and a workout and if you make it to the top you will feel beyond proud of yourself. A quick climb up the ladder to the fire lookout will take you back into history with old letters and photos of what this land once was! It was too hot to read through everything when I came up so I will have to make more trips. The road going up is filled with holes, large holes that your whole car will dip into. I took it slow at first until another car passed me and I found the right technique for my subi. Yea a subi can definitely make the trek but just be gentle on your cars and enjoy the journey! The hike up is all stairclimbers. It's definitely not a walking trail for a casual stroll; it's strenuous but very fun. I felt I was in great cardio shape while hiking but my hips and knees definitely made it harder. Stairs made of stones, stairs made of wood, and the last bit leading to the lookout is all hopping over rocks and even pulling yourself up. Bring your hiking poles and it'll definitely help! $5 for parking without a Discovery pass.

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    Mount Pilchuck State Park
    Mount Pilchuck State Park
    Mount Pilchuck State Park

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    Mount Pilchuck - publicservicesgovt - Updated May 2026

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