Climb Mt. Washington

Follow the driving directions, pass the upper Mt Eleanor parking area and continue until the road dead-ends due to a landslide. Try to leave room for cars to turn around when you park.

Follow the trail which starts just near the lake boulder near the parking area. The trail through the lower slopes of the mountain is easy to follow and occasionally marked with flags (Do not add flags).

The first 3/4 of this route is a hike. Once you cross the upper meadow about 1.5 miles into the hike route finding becomes more difficult due to several blowdowns, and because this is NOT a maintained trail. Ascend the mountain by the path of least resistance via cross country hiking and scrambling gullies and easy ledges until you arrive at the upper basin.

From the upper basin ascend talus and ledges to the summit pyramid. Circle the summit counter-clockwise until you see the ramp leading to the summit. Enjoy some of the best views the Olympic Mountains have to offer.Descend the route.

This is a mountaineering experience and good route finding skills are essential. Carry and know how to use crampons and an ice axe in early season.

For more detailed information, see the wonderful page by Redwic at summitpost.org.