Create an account sign-up-diamond

Start your adventure today.

Already a member? Login

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.
1,002 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
14.5 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.
5.5-7.5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Be the first to add a review!
Directions to Trailhead

Mount Washington Hike

Measurement:

Download an interactive map and guide on your phone today!

Table of contents

The hike to the summit of Mount Washington is a 9.0mi moderately trafficked out-and-back trail in Olallie State Park that is rated as hard. This trail is not a hugely popular choice, so it enjoys much less traffic on the weekends despite its proximity to Seattle. Truthfully, some hikers enjoy this trail and some find the payoff underwhelming for the condition of the trail, which can be overgrown and rocky and isn’t well-signed. While the summit experience on other nearby mountains might be better, this is still a good experience and a refreshing break from the heavily trafficked trails nearby.

Route Description for Mount Washington Hike

The hike up to Mount Washington’s summit has pros and cons. The pros are that it’s less busy than other similar trails in the area, it’s close to Seattle, and it offers a nice peek of Mount Rainier. The cons are that it’s poorly signed, overgrown, and the summit area itself is quite small. We also recommend downloading a GPS track to help keep you on the trail. Do the hike and decide for yourself how you feel about it!

The trail begins from the Homestead Valley Trailhead. Stay left at the first junction with Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail to head uphill onto Mount Washington Trail. There are a few viewpoints at the beginning of the trail, including the Semi Wall and a cave. There is a spur trail to the Salal Point viewpoint to your left, you can either stay straight or make this short side trip.

The trail evens out for a while, then crosses a creek twice. When you cross Olallie Trail, look for Mount Washington Trail continuing just a bit to the left. You’ll begin some wide switchbacking turns, gaining elevation as you approach the summit. This section is tiring and rocky, but just keep going.

At the summit, look for Rainier in the distance. You’ll then retrace your steps, taking care over the rocky, steep sections and minding your way at the junctions, which could benefit from more signage. Until then, rely on your GPS to return to the trailhead.

Getting to the Mount Washington Hike Trailhead

The trailhead for the Mount Washington summit trail is at the Homestead Valley Trailhead off I-90 south of the intersection with SE Homestead Valley Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    No

  • When to do:

    May-October

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage:

    Poor

  • Crowd Levels:

    Moderate

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Mount Washington Hike Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

Reviews

0.0
No reviews
Write a review
×

Add a review

You must be logged in to post a comment.

WE ARE HERE TO HELP

Let someone else do the hard work, book a custom tour in over 85 countries.

Chat with us on our contact page or fill out the form below!

10Adventures Trail App

Take your trails online! Keep track of your route along the way.

Download for free today.

Get travel inspiration and discounts

Join our weekly travel newsletter