Mount Jupiter — Wednesday, Jun. 16, 2021

The road in is not great but would be manageable for most cars. Probably not the best for some cars. Glad my buddy was driving us in his spectacular Pontiac Vibe.

Note on the trailhead: If you follow the WTA map link it'll direct you correctly. There's a gate and some space to park about 2.2 miles from the Jupiter trailhead. The standard Jupiter route starts just to the right of the Mount Jupiter trailhead sign. We actually walked right past it. The logging road that goes right just before the trailhead sign is another option you can take. I found it to be a little less steep than the standard route and took that way coming down. The trail and road meet up and there are flags marking the trail, which is cut on a side slope and easy to see.

I'm not going to comment on all the logging but it has made for great views of Hood Canal, the Brothers, Rainier and all the surrounding mountains. A little over 2 miles from the gate closure gets you to the trailhead. Another 1 mile to just under 3000 feet and you get expansive views.

The rest of the hike is a bit of a slog, mostly forested and quite dry. Steep at the beginning and steep towards the summit but a lot of gradual ups and downs. I easily went through the 3 liters of water I brought and it wasn't particularly hot out. This time of the year there are lots of pretty flowers to look at.

The best part of the hike happens when you pass into the Brothers Wilderness and it starts opening up. Overall, the trail is in good condition, outside of being a bit overgrown at times. I was expecting more of a challenge towards the top, and had brought an ice axe and spikes. There are a few patches of snow. I think the first big patch of snow is probably the worst of it but is easily manageable to maneuver around. Very minor bushwhacking. Poles were helpful but I think an ice axe and spikes are overkill depending on your comfort level, especially in the next couple weeks. Pretty much a clear trail the whole way.

Great summit with lots of comfortable rocks to rest your weary bones.