Mount Townsend — Saturday, Jul. 5, 2025

Incredible day on the mountain! Wta coordinates took us right to the trailhead even though the last 10 miles is outside of service. Trailhead parking has a stocked privy and room for 10-14 cars, with limited spots down the road on the precarious gravel pullouts. Beware of folks speeding in the opposite direction on the climb as there are few places to let folks pass by. We parked along the road for an 8am start up the trail.
It’s a well-graded dirt path to the summit, not a brutal climb, but unrelenting as there aren’t many flat sections to catch a breath. We weren’t expecting to be treated to such a variety of wildflowers! Flox, paintbrush, columbine, lupine, tiger lilies, bunchberry and more! Pink rhododendron line much of the first third of the trail, too! What a delight.
There are several nice rocky spots to stop for a break, and the views begin to open up as you ascend above the trees. The trail is mostly through the woods until the last 3rd, when you begin to have more exposure. The trail junction sign for Silver Lake is tucked back a bit and may be easy to miss. Go right for the summit.
You know you’re nearly there when the 4-lane superhighway comes into view. Careful on loose gravel at the summit and just below. Poles could be useful to avoid slipsliding your way off the summit.
Incredible views in all directions today! Lots of rocky outcroppings at the top for gazing and enjoying. For a popular trail we had plenty of solitude throughout the day. No throngs of folks at the top either, just a smattering.
Happy trails!