Sawtooth — Saturday, Aug. 18, 2012

South Cascades > Mount Adams Area

The Sawtooth Mountain Trail #107 is a scenic detour for the PCT at the northern end of the Indian Heaven Wilderness. The trail offers some spectacular views of Mt. Adams and Mt. St. Helens. A moderate day hike can be made of this hike by accessing the PCT where it crosses the 24 Road in the Sawtooth Huckleberry Fields. After obtaining a wilderness permit at the information sign board, begin hiking south on the PCT through the Huckleberry fields; which soon give way to Fir Forest. Continue south to the Northern junction of the Sawtooth Mountain Trail #107. You can begin the climb here or continue south on the PCT to the Southern junction. The trailhead at the South end, at approximately 2 miles, is a little obscure, as the trail takes off at an acute angle from the PCT and the sign is parallel to the trail, so keep an eye out. The climb at either end is moderate, but I have always enjoyed the South side climb more. There are great views of Mt Adams going up the South side, and the decent on the North end is a little easier on the knees. Once you have crested, the trail traverses the Western slope just below the summit offering good views of St Helens. The trail is in need of maintenance but there are no major obstacles. One of the things I have always enjoyed about this hike is the solitude, as this trail appears to be used infrequently, and if it is done around the middle of August the Huckleberries are ripe. It is also the time of year when PCT thru hikers are going though this area, and I always enjoy hearing about their hike. To get to the trailhead, take the Carson exit off SR14 and follow the highway north through town. This is the Wind River Highway (FSR 30 Road). Stay on the 30 Road to the junction with the 24 Road (approx 37 miles). Turn right at the junction and proceed uphill to the crossing of the PCT.