Mount Ellinor Trail #812, WA

Overview
This trail enters Mount Skokomish Wilderness. Open forest to timberline at 4,500', then the forest gives way to wildflower meadows and views of Lake Cushman and Puget Sound.


Habitat
Open coniferous forest to timberline at 4,500’, then the forest opens up to wildflower meadows and views of Lake Cushman and Puget Sound. The trail veers to the left of the steep chute, passes through abundant wildflower meadows, and then follows the ridge to the summit with expansive 360 views.

Hike
The lower trail climbs gently through the forest for the first mile, and then becomes steeper and increasingly rough. At timberline, 2.5 miles from the lower trailhead, the trail intersects the winter climbing route to the right and the summer trail route to the left. This is a good turnaround point for inexperienced hikers. Nice views of Hood Canal, Lake Cushman and the Cascades from rock outcrops near base of the chute

Summer Route to Summit
Beyond the viewpoint, the Summer Trail switchbacks to the south ridge of Mt. Ellinor, then follows the ridge to the summit at 5,944’ elevation. Please use the summer route during the snow free months to prevent damage to the fragile vegetation along the winter climbing route. Always wear good boots, carry the ten essentials, and a full canteen.

Winter Route to Summit
Use extra caution when climbing the chute, especially when it is cloudy and foggy as the rocks are extremely slick when wet. Check on avalanche conditions before beginning the climb. Ice axe, boots and the ten essentials are necessary. Conditions can change very rapidly and the chute can be hazardous even in good weather.

Check out the Official Route and Triplog.

Note
This is a more difficult hike. It would be unwise to attempt this without prior experience hiking.

Leave No Trace and +Add a Triplog after your hike to support this local community.

2018-07-14 HAZ_Hikebot