Sauk Mountain — Friday, Jul. 5, 2024

Be prepared for switchbacks! But the views at the top make it so worth the effort. The buzz of bees was ever present in the wildflowers along the trail, but luckily nothing was biting or stinging up there. The road was in fairly good condition but just be aware that it is also steep, skinny, and there are potholes and ruts in some places. Don't take your fancy cars up there if you're worried about dings and dust.

I cannot speak more highly of the views. this might be one of my favorite hikes in Washington! From the switchbacks you see a glorious sprawl of the Skagit and Sauk river valleys, the towns of Concrete and Sedro-Wooly in the backgrounds. At the top, you are treated to a 360° view of the Cascades, with Baker and the Twin Sisters in sharp relief, and even Rainier peaking out at you from the south. We sat at the top for about 30 minutes just taking it in, and hearing the whistle of the marmots nearby. Highly highly recommend!