Elbow Peak via Yellow Hill Trail

Elbow Peak has wonderful views all the way to Mount Rainier, and it’s never very busy. This is a great hike if you want a bit of a longer day with a solid elevation requirement. The hike is dry and there isn’t much shade, so bring lots of water. Poles are also recommended for the narrow ridge traverse and the steeper dry sections.

Beginning from the trailhead, start heading uphill on irregular switchbacks. The trail is slightly braided in a couple of sections, but the braided sections do return you to the main trail, so don’t stress too much if you veer away from the track by accident. You’ll skirt underneath the top of Yellow Hill after a long climb, and then you’ll traverse across the ridge to Elbow Peak. The views are wonderful, but you will want to keep an eye on your footing. From the peak, turn back and retrace your steps to the trailhead.