McClellan Butte Trail
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
Check Area WeatherReviews
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