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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Hard
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
1,155 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
18.7 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
6.5-9h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

McClellan Butte Trail

Measurement:

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Table of contents

McClellan Butte Trail is a heavily trafficked out-and-back trail in Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest that is rated as hard. This hike is a great way to try out your first real scramble, with a final rocky push required to reach the summit. If the scramble is too intimidating, you can still enjoy a solid workout most of the way up the mountain.

Route Description for McClellan Butte Trail

McClellan Butte Trail is ideal for hikers looking for a solid workout with a little bit of technical flair. The distance and elevation to the summit will get you sweating, and a fun scramble to the top gives you some hands-on time.

The trail begins from the parking loop, skirting Alice Creek Campsite and then slowly switchbacking right up the butte face. The trail is steep and tiring—no way around that! Traverse across the eastern face below the summit, crossing several streams, which are variably high depending on recent rainfall.

The trail wraps around the foot of the ridge before ascending just below the crest on the left side. Take a short scramble to the ridgetop and celebrate your ascent! When you’re ready, carefully downclimb and then retrace your steps to the trailhead.

Getting to the McClellan Butte Trail Trailhead

The trailhead for the McClellan Butte Trail is in a parking area off Tinkham Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    Alice Creek Campsite

  • When to do:

    April-October

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    No

  • Route Signage:

    Good

  • Crowd Levels:

    High

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

McClellan Butte Trail Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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