Hike 6/26 Kelly Butte Lookout
Friday, June 26, 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
4 miles, 1100 feet elevation gain.
Meet at Everett Station Park & Ride Lot --
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This unassuming little hump of a mountain in the national forest lands east of Enumclaw would be easy to overlook, but hike the short trail to the summit lookout cabin when the beargrass and other wildflowers are in bloom and you'll not soon forget it. Besides the great wildflower show, there are cool rock formations, a nicely restored lookout cabin, and great views of Mt. Rainier, the Olympics, Mt. Stuart, and lots more.
Expected Conditions:
The road and trail to Kelly Butte are open and in good condition. Everything is snowfree. There is about 6 miles of unpaved road each way to the trailhead. We hike from about 4300 feet elevation at the trailhead to 5400 feet at the top. The lookout cabin may be open if staff is working there. Expect the trail to be steep at times. especially in the middle of the hike where it gains about 600 feet in other 0.5 mile. Wildflowers, including the beargrass, should be blooming, and hopefully the weather will provide great views of Rainier and everything else.
Other Considerations:
Wear good traction hiking shoes or boots, use trekking poles for stabilty on the steep bits, and pack water and food in your pack. Bug repellent is recommended also. Plan to stop at Black Diamond Bakery on the way down there, and at Wapiti Outdoor in Greenwater on the way home.
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