Mount Pilchuck — Sunday, Aug. 10, 2025

Mt. Pilchuck did not disappoint today! I hiked this with my kids (ages 9 and 12). They are both experienced hikers and with their young and agile legs they easily passed nearly all other hikers on the trail. The interesting dynamite blasted boulders and many beautifully laid stairs makes this hike simultaneously ideal for kids who have stamina, and challenging for adults. It is a great hike for families wanting to take it to the next level. 

The trailhead was about 2/3 full at 8:00 on the Sunday we chose. Not surprisingly a few early risers were already returning from what was probably a beautiful sunrise hike to the lookout. It was a clear night and temps were expected to climb by afternoon. A morning hike is a perfect way to enjoy the 360 views from the top. 
Note…bring your own TP. The pit toilets were out of TP and I don’t know when they will be restocked. This is a popular trail and generally well maintained so hopefully it was just bad timing. 
The route was easy to find (follow the orange trail markers when you get to the boulder field). The lookout was crowded as usual for a sunny weekend. Since this lookout involves a boulder scramble to get to the ladder please be patient with other hikers. Before starting up the scramble asses whether folks are on their way down. While the usual trail courtesy is downhill-bound hikers yield to people traveling uphill. This situation calls for “out before in” courtesy. People vacating the lookout and scrambling downhill need room to safely get down. Trying to have both uphill and downhill traffic on the boulders and ladder is a challenge that requires patience and grace for others. That being said, everyone at the lookout during our time at the top was wonderful and worked together to ensure safety and enjoyment for all.