Mailbox Peak - Old Trail, Mailbox Peak — Wednesday, May. 28, 2025

Mailbox peak to one's self still is possible if you take the hike during the middle of the week.  Less than a dozen other the hikers the entire hike!!!! The  weather that was clear, slightly on the warm side and there were no bugs.  The route up was the old trail with the trail head about 1/4 mile up the road beyond the trailhead of the new trailhead.  It is in good shape overall however, it is steep, full of roots & loose rock in places.  It should not be taken lightly for sure and being in good shape is a must!!! There were no blow downs from the wind storm last year and no water or mud on the trail to deal with.  At the junction with the new trail until the top, the trail was in great shape.  The final climb after the rock stairs that take one up through the scree field, had a lot of loose gravel however, there were rock steps occasionally.  Those steps  were most welcomed.  Views were endless at the top with Baker, Glacier and Rainer out in their glory.   I had the summit to myself for over 1/2 hour!!!!  For the decent trekking poles were so helpful as the footing on the loose rock is a bit challenging, especially until the rock steps.  The rest of the decent was on the new trail and it's definitely easy on the muscles.  There are several blowdowns that cross the trail, especially the first mile.  All the blow downs were passable however and only one was a bit challenging.  There were several sections on the trail where water seeps flow on the trail however it was only slightly muddy.  The remainder of the decent was on good tread and in great condition.  In summary, a great hike and hiking it during the week was a real treat