Starting from valley bottom, the Huckleberry Mountain Trail is one of the last "complete" trails left in the North Cascades. A half century of aggressive logging severed many of our trails from their valley roots (or worse, obliterated them). Miraculously, Huckleberry Mountain's trail and more importantly its forests were spared this fate. On this trail you can propel yourself back in time to when it took time to reach coveted summits and high ridges. But more than mere time is required for this trek; you'll also need excellent endurance and a good cardiovascular system.

Starting under a glorious canopy of ancient Douglas-fir, the trail begins its long and winding way up the mountain. While the grade is good and the tread intact, undergrowth is encroaching upon this trail that receives little maintenance. (Actually, in these days of budgetary neglect, most of our trails receive little maintenance - a national shame.)

The trail alternates between short switchbacks and long traverses as it works its way up the broad mile-high peak. Well-shaded and near water for much of the way, this part of the strenuous hike won't threaten you with overheating. Finally, at about 4.5 miles and 4500 feet above the Suiattle River valley, the grade eases as you attain the ridge crest. By late summer you're looking at a dry run along the ridge, so be sure water bottles are adequately filled.

Through thinning forest and expanding meadows, enjoy expansive views east over the Suiattle to Glacier Peak, south to Whitehorse and White Chuck, and west to the Finney Block. Continue along the ridge, straddling the Glacier Peak Wilderness boundary - old growth to the east protected, old growth to the west fate unknown.

At about 6 miles, on fading tread, attain a 5483-foot knoll and a logical and sane post for calling it a day and savoring views. To the west, Tenas Creek roars below, draining Boulder Lake beneath Hurricane Peak. To the east, Buck Creek flows through an emerald valley. A scene little changed through the centuries.