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.