Great hike on a beautiful autumn day.  Air was clear and view was great.  Plan 30 minutes minimum to drive from the Snoqualmie Summit to the trailhead.  The road is quite rough in spots.

Haha! We thought we were hiking Silver Peak, but only realized when it went so quickly that it was not. Mt. Catherine was a pleasant climb and due to road conditions (one rough spot, and fear of lack of parking up ahead), we walked a bit to get to the trail as well (1.5 added each way). Saw lots of families, and rewarding view at the top. Mt. Rainier was out and glorious. Lake Keechelus was also stunning.

We got to the trailhead around 9:30AM and took our time going up, reaching the summit before 11am. The last half-mile or so had about an inch of snow and it was pretty icy and slick in places. The final 20-foot scramble to the top was tricky because of the ice and we couldn't have done it without the cables that were left in place. But once we reached the top the view was excellent. Mount Rainier was hidden by clouds but we could see the surrounding mountains and the fall colors. It took less than an hour to get back down and we only saw one other hiking group. The road itself is full of deep potholes and there are two spots where you really need a 4x4 with adequate ground clearance, otherwise you'll have to park at the second sharp bend in the road and hike in. I was driving a Jeep XJ but the other hikers had a Subaru Forester and made it. Don't try it in a car unless you want to get stuck or ruin your vehicle.

The drive to the trail head had two particularly rough spots that were a challenge in our small Kia, but we made it. 

There were not many people on the trail and the hike quiet, as well as litter-free. 

The trail was steep in most spots, but very rewarding at the top, as the views were ethereal and misty. There was a neat climbing cliff at the top. 

A very low-traveled, quiet trail. It's a good idea to bring bear spray and make noise while hiking. It is the country where you may find bears and cougars.