Hex Mountain — Wednesday, Jun. 20, 2012

Snoqualmie Region > Salmon La Sac/Teanaway

On the first day of summer I drove the Salmon La Sac Road 6 miles from downtown Roslyn and found the approach road for Hex Mountain on the right, signed Sasse Mountain Trail - 3 miles. (If you see the Wish Posh Boat Launch sign you went past the turn-off.) The road was in good shape and at each fork I stayed with the road that looked most traveled. (Left fork worked when in doubt) You know you're correct if you see mile markers indicating your progress to the trailhead. I knew that Hex Mountain was highly rated as a winter snow shoe trip but I wanted to see how it would be for an early season hike and indeed it turned out to be excellent. Views of Lake Cle Elum began within a quarter mile of the trailhead and continued to get better as you gained elevation. Many flowers were in bloom and it seemed even more were out in the afternoon when I was returning to my car. The trail was snow free except for a little patch near the top where you reach the ridge walk to the summit at 5,040'. (see pic below) The views of Rainier, Daniels, Jolly, Stuart, and the Enchantment Peaks were outstanding from the top. (Pics below) One could continue on the trail from Hex Mountain to Sasse Mountain but you'd have to give up a lot of elevation before climbing up to Sasse. 4 miles RT and about 1,600' of elevation gain - Short, sweet, and a tad bit steep!