Pining Up Pinchuck

I got a late start from the trailhead at 9:45am. I hiked the trail on a Wednesday, and the parking lot was barely half-full by the time I arrived.

I loved the variety of this trail. There’s a clear progression from wooded forest to alpine conditions with granite boulders and sparse vegetation near the summit.

The lookout is open and was a highlight. There were 6-8 people looking to enter before me once I arrived at the top. In addition to the lookout, there are a few nice spots to eat lunch and catch different views.

This was a hot day and a busy hike. Would highly recommend for the views!!!!

** This hike almost didn’t happen. I put in directions to “Mount Pilchuck Trailhead” into Apple Maps, and it took me to a location an hour away from the actual trailhead. A good reminder to cross reference with written directions from Six Pack of Peaks or All Trails in advance. I also read about the bad roads, but I didn’t realize that meant 5 miles of the 6.8 mile access road was gravel with deep potholes, some nearly over a foot deep. It took me over half an hour to go the 5 miles and my MINI caught the edge a number of times, but I made it. Phew.