Beautiful day! After about 1 mile in we broke the clouds and saw sun. There was a dusting of snow at the top, and we were happy we didn’t have to bring snowshoes. Both the trailhead and trail are clear... easy access. It took us 2.5 hours total, including the time it took for a side trip to the south viewpoint.

The gate next to highway 101 was open, allowing you to park next to the trail head.  The gate at the trail head for driving up to the lookout is closed.  Trail was in great condition.  A little snow on the final half mile or so of the trail with a few inches at the top.  (That probably changed last night.)  

The road up to Mt. Walker from Tacoma area was peaceful and quick. Only about an hour and a half getting to the TH. There were about 5 other vehicles in the lot and the gate to the N and S viewpoints was closed. This trail is definitely a butt kicker unless you are in exceptional hiking condition, in my opinion. The steepness starts quick and doesn’t ever let up until you reach the top. Just when you think there’s respite, you are sorely (literally) mistaken. Unfortunately, the spectacular views from the summit were hidden by clouds but the moody, foggy forest made up for it especially when the sun peeked through the trees. Poles were a must on the way down, otherwise your knees will be hating you for a looong time. A lovely and challenging little hike. Stop by Butcher and Baker Provisions in Port Gamble on your way home for some yummy post hike food. 

Hiked to the summit. Trail conditions were great. Only saw 5 other hikers and 2 dogs. Saw several squirrels near the trail and small birds.

Visibility was quite low at the summit. Got some light rain just as we reached the last switchback.

Bathrooms at the summit were functional.

Trail was in great shape, thanks to the WTA volunteers who worked this trail the day after Thanksgiving.  I hit light snow about halfway up, but it was no impediment.  Made the footing a bit slippery on the way down.  Cloud cover was low, and there was no view from the north summit, but from the south summit I could see Dabob Bay, Hood Canal, Kitsap Peninsula, and even downtown Seattle.

It was a Sunday, and I encountered about a dozen other hikers.