Green Mountain — Saturday, Aug. 21, 1999

North Cascades > Mountain Loop Highway

Seven miles north of Darrington on Hwy 530 turn right heading east on Suiattle River Rd. (FR 26) for 20 miles. Turn left heading north on FR 2680 -signed to the Green Mtn T/H. These forest roads are in generally excellent condition right now, your family sedan will get you there, just drive carefully. The eight mile R/T trail has a 3100 ft elevation gain. Despite the apparent shortness of the hike, allow yourself about 5-6 hours to complete the trip (this includes substantial gawking/picture-taking time at the incredible views!). Apart from the first mile, this hike is quite exposed - bring sunscreen on sunny days. The first mile ascends moderately through shaded woods, then opens up into an open meadow with good views to the south and west. The trail is quite overgrown through the meadow section but is easy enough to follow. Beware of occasional holes in the trail tread, they can be difficult to see, courtesy of the wildflower growth. Wildflowers were in profusion in the meadow, though a little past their prime. After steadily ascending a further 1.5 miles with some outstanding views of Glacier Peak to the south, the trail drops briefly down into some small tarns with a few associated camp sites. Some patches of snow remain here but the trail was clear. From this point forward, the bugs were very prevalent - bring your preferred repellant! From the tarns, the trail ascends steeply for the last 1.5 miles up to the summit and a lookout. This is a tough 1.5 miles but the incredible 360 degree view from the summit is well worth it. The lookout itself (as indicated in the reports of others here) is indeed in very bad shape and should not be ventured upon.