Mount Washington — Friday, Sep. 11, 1998

Snoqualmie Region > North Bend Area

The views from the top of Mt. Washington are just great. You can see the interior of the Olympic Range, Hood Canal, Mt Rainier, and much more. However, the rewards don't come easy. We took the ""easy way up"", Route 1A. This is really only a hike but it is very steep, 3200 ft of elevation gain in about 2 miles. The trail begins at the first curve past the turnoff of the upper Mt. Elinor trailhead. It starts off very steep and pretty much maintains that until you get to the top. There is a nice plateau halfway up that you can camp at. There was no water there at this time and no water anywhere along the trail. From this meadow you go straight up to the face and then bear left just below the wall. There is an obvious trail that leads you up steeply onto a high plateau. Just below the peak it gets a little airy and for those afraid of heights this could be a problem. The final little bit is a very easy scramble getting you onto a small rocky summit big enough for about 5 people. No climbing equipment is needed for this route, just sturdy hiking boots and your usual hiking gear. I would not recommend this hike for kids or anyone afraid of heights or for those not in good condition. Although it is a hike, it is very steep, requires the use of hands in places, and personally would have a hard time watching my kids go across a ledge that drops off precipitously. Mt. Elinor would be a much better choice if any of the above is an issue.