Stegosaurus Butte — Friday, Dec. 19, 2025

Decided to fit this short hike in during the late Friday afternoon. At the trailhead, the roaring of the very swollen Middle Fork Snoqualmie River competed with the chorus of chainsaws clearing downed trees in the nearby campground. At the turnoff from the main trail up to the Stegosaurus Butte hike, you'll encounter some very deep muddy parts. My boots were completely enveloped in mud at some points. And then from here it is all up! If the conditions are wet, remember that stepping on exposed tree roots can be quite slippery. Aim your footholds for the dirt and the rocks. With all the downed branches and trees strewn all over the steep trail, it was easy to lose the path. And you'll have to be very careful when navigating around or under the various obstacles. It was snowing at the Stegosaurus Butte Overlook. But through the fast-moving clouds, you could catch an occasional glimpse of the overflowing river and the surrounding mountains. I opted not to proceed all the way to the summit because of the late hour. The way back down actually felt even more treacherous! Exercise caution and try to keep three points of contact as you make your way back. I was the only hiker on the trail and the last remaining car in the parking lot.