Hall - Grassy Divide

This long ridge route gives hikers big views in all directions and also serves as a connector to enable big loop opportunities with other nearby trails. Since this trail is not accessible by vehicle as a stand-alone hike, hikers must choose which feeder trail best suits their access needs. There are three different trailheads that grant access to the Hall — Grassy Divide trail, which serves as a connector trail between Noisy Creek and Hall Mountain to the west and Grassy Top trail to the east.

For the easiest road access to the Hall — Grassy Divide, start at the Noisy Creek trailhead at the south end of Sullivan Lake, located on the edge of the popular Noisy Creek campground. A small trailhead just off the pavement provides hiker parking for the Noisy Creek trail. This trail ascends 5.3 miles one-way to its intersection with both Hall — Grassy Divide and Hall Mountain Summit trail. Turn east at the junction to continue on the Hall — Grassy Divide.

For less overall elevation gain compared to the Noisy Creek trail access, hikers may choose to start their hike at the Johns Creek trailhead for Hall Mountain Trail 540. Please note that Johns Creek is only open to motorized vehicles between July 10-August 14 each summer and is best suited to high-clearance vehicles. The Hall Mountain trail from Johns Creek comes to a junction with both the Hall — Grassy Divide and Noisy Creek Trail after a mere 0.7 miles. Hikers who come from either starting trailhead will want to consider tacking on the additional 1.8 miles one-way to ascend to the summit of Hall Mountain.

The third trailhead access for the Hall — Grassy Divide is located at Pass Creek Pass, the start of the trail to Grassy Top. This longer approach via rough Forest Service Road is best for high-clearance vehicles. Start on the Grassy Top trail, which intersects the Hall — Grassy Divide after 2.7 miles (consider continuing 1.1 miles one-way to the summit of Grassy Top before proceeding). 

The Hall — Grassy Divide itself is about 5 miles one-way, opening up many possibilities for overnight and multi-day trips on the Sullivan Lake Ranger District. The trail crosses through forested areas and also includes wildflower-filled alpine meadows. A portion of the trail has been impacted by two major wildfires in recent years, leading to sections with big views but little shade, and downfall trees may be an obstacle to contend with both early season and following windstorms. The only drawback is that there is no access to water along this trail, so be sure to carry enough to hike through, or plan campsites along the Noisy Creek and Grassy Top feeder trails.