Carne Mountain — Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024

Wonderful hike today!!! Went with my partner and our leashed dog. Got to the trailhead at 8:30am and there was a full parking lot and a few cars already starting to line the road. The road in was rocky and slow going but nothing concerning or impassable. No toilets at the trailhead but there is a nice pit toilet along the way at Finner Creek campground about 11 miles from the TH! 

You start climbing pretty soon after starting. In the beginning there are some eroded and rooty spots that are a bit overgrown. Basically you never really stop climbing until you reach the basin at about 6100’ which is where the larches begin. This is incredible! This is also where a light layer of snow is on the ground, which will all most likely melt by tomorrow. Traction is not necessary. The larches here in the basin are still yellow-green lime colored. As you keep climbing more and more larches are golden and the panoramic mountain views really start to open up. Make a LEFT towards Rock Creek for the final push upwards to reach the summit of Carne mountain. 

Reached the summit just before noon and had a nice lunch. Exposed but no wind! Really such a beautiful day - such a treat. Passed tons of folks as we were going down. Half the dogs were off leash but all very well trained with nice owners as well, all of which gave way/leashed up for my pup (thank you!!) 

Can’t wait to do this one again someday!!!