How to Hike Granite Mountain Near Seattle

Granite Mountain, located just east of the Seattle metropolitan area in the Cascade Range, offers one of the most rewarding and visually stunning day hikes in the Pacific Northwest. While not as widely known as Mount Si or Rattlesnake Ledge, Granite Mountain delivers a challenging ascent, panoramic views of the Snoqualmie Valley, and a sense of solitude that many hikers crave. For those seeking a rugged, less crowded alternative to the region’s more popular trails, Granite Mountain stands out as a hidden gem. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to safely and successfully hiking Granite Mountain, covering everything from trailhead navigation and gear selection to timing your visit and respecting the environment. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a motivated beginner, this tutorial equips you with the knowledge to tackle this demanding but unforgettable route.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Research and Plan Your Route

Before setting foot on the trail, understanding the route is critical. Granite Mountain is accessed via the Granite Mountain Trail, which begins at the Granite Mountain Trailhead off Forest Road 9030, approximately 35 miles east of Seattle. The trail is approximately 7.2 miles round trip with an elevation gain of nearly 3,400 feet, making it a strenuous hike. The summit offers 360-degree views that include Mount Rainier, Mount Baker, the North Cascades, and the Snoqualmie Valley.

Begin by consulting official sources such as the U.S. Forest Service website for the Snoqualmie Ranger District. Verify current trail conditions, fire restrictions, and any closures due to weather or maintenance. Download offline maps using apps like Gaia GPS or AllTrails, as cell service is unreliable beyond the trailhead. Print a physical map as a backup. Note that the trail is not marked with signs beyond the initial junctions, so route-finding skills are essential.

2. Choose the Right Time of Year

Granite Mountain is accessible year-round, but conditions vary dramatically by season. The most popular and safest time to hike is from late June through September, when snowpack has melted and trail conditions are stable. Spring (April–May) brings lingering snowfields and potential stream crossings that require caution. Winter hikes are only for experienced mountaineers with ice axes, crampons, and avalanche training.

Early morning starts are strongly recommended, especially in summer. The trailhead parking fills quickly by 7:00 a.m. on weekends. Starting early also gives you ample time to descend before afternoon thunderstorms, which are common in the Cascades during July and August. Always check the National Weather Service forecast for the Snoqualmie Pass area the night before your hike.

3. Prepare Your Gear

Proper gear is non-negotiable on Granite Mountain. Unlike many urban-adjacent trails, this route includes steep, exposed sections and loose scree. Essential items include:

• Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support and aggressive tread
• Layered clothing: moisture-wicking base layer, insulating mid-layer, and waterproof outer shell
• Backpack (20–30 liters) with hydration system or water bottles
• At least 3 liters of water per person, plus a water filter or purification tablets
• High-energy snacks: nuts, energy bars, dried fruit, and electrolyte supplements
• Navigation tools: compass, paper map, GPS device, or smartphone with offline maps
• Headlamp with extra batteries
• First aid kit: include blister care, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, and personal medications
• Sun protection: wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and SPF 50+ sunscreen
• Trekking poles: invaluable for descent stability on loose rock
• Emergency whistle and space blanket

Do not underestimate the temperature drop at the summit. Even in summer, wind chill can make it feel 15–20°F cooler than at the trailhead. Pack a puffy jacket regardless of the forecast.

4. Reach the Trailhead

The Granite Mountain Trailhead is located on Forest Road 9030, off State Route 202 near North Bend. From Seattle, take I-90 east to Exit 29 (North Bend). Turn right onto SR-202 and follow it for 6.5 miles. Look for the signed turnoff to Forest Road 9030 on the left, just past the North Bend Water Treatment Plant. The road is gravel and narrow; high-clearance vehicles are recommended but not required if driven carefully.

Parking is limited to about 15–20 spaces. Arrive early to secure a spot. If full, park legally along the shoulder without blocking gates or driveways. Do not park on private property. The trailhead is marked by a small wooden kiosk with a map and a sign for Granite Mountain. There are no restrooms, water, or trash bins here—pack out everything you bring in.

5. Begin the Hike: Trail Description

The trail begins with a gentle climb through dense fir and cedar forest. The first mile is relatively moderate, with switchbacks and a steady incline. You’ll pass a few small streams and moss-covered rocks. Around mile 1.2, you’ll reach a junction with the Greenwater Trail. Stay right on the Granite Mountain Trail—left leads to the Greenwater River and is not part of your route.

From mile 1.5 to 3.5, the trail steepens significantly. This is the most physically demanding section. The path becomes rocky and exposed, with loose granite slabs underfoot. Use your trekking poles for stability. Watch for cairns—stacked rocks used to mark the trail in areas where it’s less defined. Do not rely on footprints; they disappear quickly due to erosion and wind.

At approximately 3.8 miles, you’ll emerge from the tree line onto the final ridge. This is where the real reward begins. The trail narrows, and the terrain becomes scree-heavy. Proceed slowly and deliberately. The summit is visible now—a broad, rocky plateau with a large cairn and a 360-degree view. Take your time here. The summit is not a peak in the traditional sense but a wide, open expanse perfect for resting and photographing.

6. Summit and Return

At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of Mount Rainier to the south, Mount Baker to the north, and the entire Snoqualmie Valley stretching below. On clear days, you can even spot the Olympic Mountains to the west. Take photos, hydrate, and eat a snack. Do not linger too long—weather can change rapidly, and descent in poor visibility is dangerous.

On the return, the trail is more treacherous than the ascent. Descending loose scree requires control and balance. Keep your center of gravity low and take small, deliberate steps. Avoid sliding—this increases risk of ankle injury. Use your poles to brake and stabilize. If you feel unstable, stop and reassess. Many injuries occur on the way down, not the way up.

Re-enter the forest around mile 5.5. The trail becomes more defined again. Be alert for trail markers as you rejoin the main path. At mile 7.2, you’ll return to the trailhead. Check your gear and pack out all trash. Wash your hands with biodegradable soap if you’ve touched rocks or soil—this helps prevent the spread of invasive plant seeds.

Best Practices

1. Hike in Groups of Three or More

While solo hiking is possible on Granite Mountain, it is not recommended. The trail’s exposure, loose terrain, and lack of cell service make it risky for unaccompanied hikers. If you must go alone, leave a detailed itinerary with someone you trust—including your planned start and end times, route, and expected return. Consider carrying a satellite communicator like a Garmin inReach for emergency signaling.

2. Leave No Trace Principles

Granite Mountain is part of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, a protected area managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Follow Leave No Trace ethics rigorously:

• Plan ahead and prepare—know the regulations and weather.
• Travel and camp on durable surfaces—stick to the trail.
• Dispose of waste properly—pack out all trash, including food scraps and toilet paper.
• Leave what you find—do not move rocks, pick wildflowers, or carve into trees.
• Minimize campfire impact—fires are prohibited above 5,000 feet and discouraged elsewhere.
• Respect wildlife—observe from a distance and never feed animals.
• Be considerate of others—yield to uphill hikers, keep noise low, and step aside for faster parties.

3. Acclimate and Train

Granite Mountain’s elevation gain is comparable to many 10,000-foot peaks. If you’re not used to sustained climbs, train for at least six weeks before attempting the hike. Incorporate stair climbing, weighted backpack walks, and hill repeats into your routine. Focus on leg strength and cardiovascular endurance. Practice hiking with your full pack to simulate trail conditions.

4. Recognize Altitude and Weather Risks

Although Granite Mountain’s summit is only 5,970 feet, rapid weather changes are common. Cloud cover can roll in within minutes, reducing visibility to near zero. Thunderstorms often develop after noon in summer. If you hear thunder or see darkening skies, descend immediately. Lightning strikes are a real danger on exposed ridges.

Altitude sickness is rare at this elevation but possible for those coming from sea level. Symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath. If you experience these, stop, rest, hydrate, and descend if symptoms persist. Do not push through.

5. Avoid Crowds and Respect Local Communities

While Granite Mountain is less crowded than nearby trails, weekend traffic has increased. To minimize impact, hike on weekdays if possible. Avoid the peak summer months (July–August) if you prefer solitude. Respect private property near the trailhead—do not trespass on adjacent lands. Do not park on local roads or block driveways in North Bend or Snoqualmie.

6. Know Your Limits

Granite Mountain is not a beginner trail. If you’re unsure of your fitness or experience, consider a less technical alternative like Mount Si or Tiger Mountain first. Turn back if conditions deteriorate, if you’re fatigued, or if you feel uncomfortable on exposed sections. There is no shame in retreating. The mountain will be there another day.

Tools and Resources

1. Recommended Apps

• Gaia GPS: Offers topographic maps, offline access, and trail overlays. Subscribe to the USGS 7.5’ Quadrangle layer for detailed terrain.
• AllTrails: User reviews, recent trail reports, and photos. Filter by “dog-friendly” or “crowded” to find the best conditions.
• PeakFinder: Augmented reality app that identifies peaks visible from the summit using your phone’s camera.
• National Weather Service: Official forecasts for Snoqualmie Pass and surrounding ridges.

2. Essential Maps

Download or purchase the following maps:

• USGS 7.5’ Quadrangle: Granite Mountain – the most accurate topographic map available.
• Green Trails Map

  202S: Snoqualmie Pass East – widely used by local hikers and includes trail junctions and water sources.

• Forest Service Map: Snoqualmie Ranger District – available for free at the ranger station or online.

3. Local Resources

Visit the Snoqualmie Ranger Station (12110 SE 32nd Street, North Bend, WA) before your hike. Staff can provide current trail conditions, bear activity alerts, and fire restrictions. The station is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and has restrooms and water.

Local outdoor retailers like REI Co-op in Seattle and North Bend Outfitters offer gear rentals, trail advice, and shuttle information. They also host free weekend hiking clinics that cover navigation and safety.

4. Online Communities

Join these forums to get real-time updates:

• Washington Trails Association (WTA) Forum: Search “Granite Mountain” for recent trip reports and photos.
• Reddit r/WAHiking: Active community with daily trail updates and safety tips.
• Facebook Groups: “Pacific Northwest Hikers”: Many members post live photos from the summit and warn of hazards.

5. Emergency Contacts

In case of emergency, call 911. Provide your location using GPS coordinates from your phone or map app. The nearest rescue teams are based in North Bend and Snoqualmie. If you have a satellite communicator, activate it immediately. Do not wait until you’re stranded.

Real Examples

Example 1: A Weekend Hike in Late July

Mark and Lisa, both experienced hikers from Tacoma, planned their Granite Mountain trip for a Saturday in late July. They left Seattle at 5:30 a.m., arrived at the trailhead by 6:45 a.m., and started hiking by 7:15 a.m. They carried 3.5 liters of water, electrolyte tablets, and a lightweight down jacket. Using Gaia GPS, they confirmed their location every 30 minutes. They reached the summit at 11:15 a.m. and spent 45 minutes taking photos and eating lunch. On the descent, they noticed a group of hikers struggling with loose scree and offered advice on foot placement. They returned to the trailhead at 2:45 p.m., exhausted but exhilarated. Their trip report on WTA helped future hikers prepare for the steep scree section.

Example 2: A Solo Hike with Unexpected Weather

David, a solo hiker from Bellevue, attempted Granite Mountain in early June. He had trained for months but underestimated the lingering snow on the upper ridge. Around 5,000 feet, he encountered a 20-foot snowfield that required careful navigation. He used his trekking poles to probe the snow and found a safe path around the edge. At the summit, clouds rolled in, and visibility dropped to 50 feet. He quickly put on his rain shell, activated his Garmin inReach, and sent a “safe” message to his emergency contact. He descended slowly, following cairns and his GPS track. He reached the trailhead at 5:10 p.m., just before a thunderstorm hit. His experience underscored the importance of carrying a satellite device and checking snowpack levels.

Example 3: A Family Attempt That Didn’t Work Out

A family of four from Kent attempted Granite Mountain with their two teenage children in August. They brought only 1.5 liters of water per person and wore sneakers. By mile 2.5, the children were overheated and dehydrated. The parents pushed forward, hoping the trail would ease. At the ridge, the children became frightened by the exposure and refused to continue. The family turned back, frustrated and exhausted. They later learned that many families attempt this trail without proper preparation. The lesson? Know your group’s limits and never underestimate the trail’s difficulty. They returned the next year with proper gear, trained for six weeks, and successfully summited with their kids on a weekday.

Example 4: A Winter Ascent with Proper Gear

Three experienced mountaineers from Olympia summited Granite Mountain in January using snowshoes, crampons, and ice axes. They started at dawn, carried ropes, and had avalanche training. The trail was buried under 3–4 feet of snow, and the ridge was wind-scoured. They followed a snow route that avoided the loose rock section. They used GPS to navigate through whiteout conditions. They spent 10 minutes at the summit before descending. Their trip report included detailed photos of the snow route and warnings about crevasse danger near the ridge. Their documentation helped others prepare for winter ascents safely.

FAQs

Is Granite Mountain suitable for beginners?

Granite Mountain is not recommended for beginners due to its steep, exposed terrain, lack of trail markers, and significant elevation gain. Beginners should start with easier hikes like Rattlesnake Ledge or Mailbox Peak to build fitness and confidence.

Do I need a permit to hike Granite Mountain?

No permit is required to hike Granite Mountain. However, if you plan to camp overnight in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, you’ll need a Northwest Forest Pass for parking and an Alpine Lakes Wilderness Permit for overnight stays. Day hikers only need the parking pass.

Can I bring my dog on the Granite Mountain Trail?

Yes, dogs are allowed but must be under control at all times. The trail’s rocky terrain can damage paw pads, so booties are recommended. Bring extra water and clean up after your pet. Many hikers report encountering wildlife, so keep your dog leashed to avoid disturbing animals.

Are there water sources on the trail?

There are no reliable water sources beyond the first 1.5 miles. Streams may be present in spring but are often dry by midsummer. Always carry all the water you need—minimum 3 liters per person.

How long does it take to hike Granite Mountain?

Most hikers take 5–7 hours round trip, including summit time. Faster hikers may complete it in 4.5 hours, while those taking photos or resting may need 8 hours. Allow extra time if conditions are poor.

Is the trail well-marked?

No, the trail is poorly marked beyond the first mile. Cairns are the primary navigation aid. Rely on a GPS or map, not trail blazes.

Can I hike Granite Mountain in the rain?

You can, but it’s significantly more dangerous. Rain makes the granite slick and increases the risk of slips and falls. Avoid hiking during or immediately after heavy rain. Thunderstorms are common in summer afternoons—plan to be off the summit by noon.

What’s the best camera lens for summit photos?

A wide-angle lens (16–24mm) captures the vast landscape best. A telephoto lens (70–200mm) is ideal for isolating Mount Rainier or distant peaks. Bring a microfiber cloth to wipe lens fog from moisture.

Are there bears on Granite Mountain?

Black bears are present in the area but rarely seen on this trail. Store food securely and never leave snacks unattended. Bear spray is not necessary for day hikers but is recommended for overnight trips.

Can I hike Granite Mountain in the winter?

Yes, but only with mountaineering gear, avalanche training, and experience. The trail becomes a snow climb with potential for crevasses and whiteouts. Winter ascents should only be attempted by experienced alpinists.

Conclusion

Hiking Granite Mountain near Seattle is more than just a physical challenge—it’s a journey into the heart of the Cascades, where solitude, raw beauty, and personal resilience converge. This trail demands preparation, respect, and humility. It rewards those who come ready with the right gear, the right mindset, and the right timing. Whether you’re drawn by the summit views, the quiet trails, or the sense of accomplishment, Granite Mountain offers an experience few other hikes in the region can match.

By following the steps outlined in this guide—from planning your route and packing essential gear to respecting the environment and knowing your limits—you’re not just hiking a mountain. You’re becoming part of a tradition of responsible outdoor stewardship that ensures Granite Mountain remains wild and accessible for generations to come.

Before you go, ask yourself: Am I prepared? Am I respectful? Am I safe? If the answer is yes, then lace up your boots, pack your water, and step onto the trail. The mountain is waiting.