Rock Mountain via Rock Lake — Sunday, Sep. 29, 2024

Compared to some of the other trails accessible off of Hwy 2 east of Stevens Pass, this is perhaps the only one anyone can access without a high clearance vehicle, as the trailhead is right off of the highway. Except for a trail sign that exists at the trailhead, I did not see any other signs until far up the trail. Therefore you must pay attention to the trail description because there are a few confusing junctions early in the hike. Once you reach the trail above the power lines the confusion ends. Some have pointed out that this is not a very popular trail and as a result is not well maintained. This is perhaps all true, but I really had little issue with the trail as it zigzags up the ridge. After about two hours of hiking the climb eases up a little and spectacular views begin to open up. The trail continues to climb, but in a slightly less steep way. After about three or four hours of hiking you will reach the junction with the Nason Ridge Trail. Go left and head up the mountain. The day I was there the summit was shrouded in clouds and there was freezing rain, so I did not stay long on the summit before heading back down. The entire hike - up and down - took me about eight to nine hours to do. Only saw three other hikers that day.