Contact Info
Suite 3A
Everett, WA 98201
- Phone:
- 425-783-6000
- Toll-Free:
- 800-627-0062
Basics
- Length:
- 17.5 miles
- Difficulty:
- Difficult
- Elevation Range:
- 2500 feet to 2600 feet
- Elevation Change:
- 100 feet
- Usage:
- Medium
- Season:
- Summer to Fall
Description
The trail climbs gradually before coming out at one of the meadows. The meadows on this trail are reported to be some of the prettiest in the Glacier Peak Wilderness. Spectacular views of Mt. Pugh and Glacier Peak.
The first 5.5 miles of this trail is on closed Road No. 2710, now considered Trail No. 657 (Meadow Mountain Trail), which climbs steadily up a gentle grade. The old trailhead is on the left at the end of the road and climbs steeply for 1.3 miles through dense woods before reaching the first meadow. A small stream nearby suggests a relaxing pause for lunch.
The trail continues on for another 1.5 miles until the junction with a way trail on the left (east). Drop down 0.7 mile to the 11.0-acre lake, which is in a beautiful alpine setting, cliffs on one side, trees and meadows on the other.
The trail enters the Glacier Peak Wilderness at the 7.0 mile point.
The main trail continues on past the lake turnoff, angling up a ridge passing forest and meadows at 3.0 miles. The fall colors of these meadows and ripe blueberries in September and October are well worth the effort involved to visit the area.
The trail continues going up and down, with numerous switchbacks giving you excellent views of Glacier Peak. Although camp spots are frequent along the way, the first site with guaranteed water is at 8.5 miles. The ridge crest is crossed at 5850 feet. From here, the 9.6-acre Diamond Lake, elevation 5250 feet, and the 11.0-acre Emerald Lake, elevation 5150 feet, are accessible by compass and map only, since there is not a trail to either lake.
Continuing along the ridge, the trail proceeds through patches of trees, side hill flowers and fantastic views, eventually dropping down with a few switchbacks. Campsites are available along the trail. At 12.0 miles the trail passes by Fire Mountain. Experienced trail hikers can venture up the 6591 foot mountain. At 16.0 miles you reach the White Chuck Trail No. 643, which is 1.5 miles form the White Chuck Trailhead.
A Northwest Forest Pass is required for each vehicle parked at the trailhead.
Details
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Useful Map(s):
Map + Directions
Basic Directions
From the Darrington, take the Mountain Loop Highway 9.0 miles to the White Chuck Road #23 and turn left (east). Follow this road for 6.0 miles to the Rat Trap Pass Road #27 (signed Meadow Mountain Trail). Turn left (north) and drive 2.4 miles to the trailhead (may not be signed) on your right.
