Sauk Mountain hike
The Sauk Mountain hike is recognized as one of the most scenic in the NorthWest. But you have to endure a rough ride to get to the trail head, followed by a strenuous climb. But this time of the year the wild flowers are in bloom, the mountains still have snow caps, and the scenery is just gorgeous.
The “road” to the trail head is gravel washboard with huge potholes. It is narrow, has big drop-offs, and many switchbacks. Fortunately, we didn’t meet much traffic either way. And when you see the trail itself you do a bit of a double take… so steep! But watch your footing… the trail is narrow and the way down long!
The hike isn’t terribly long at 4.2 miles, but it gains 1,200 feet in the first 2 miles. But it is doable (even for us old farts) and the views from the top as well as along the trail are spectacular. On the way up there is a closeup view of Mount Baker, and at the top Mount Rainer is visible. Visibility was somewhat reduced from the forest fires but still quite amazing.
Check the “road” on the GPS….
Can you spot the trail, heading all the way to the top?
A really cute out house
View from the top
From half way up. See our car far below?
A view of Mt. Baker
Wild flower
Wild thistle
Wildflower
Some of the scenery along the trail
Heading back
Snow!
Romola at the top
More snow
Sauk Lake
Looking north
Looking south
Laninga's Travel Blog 