*Due to uncertain weather, this trip may change on short notice.
Join me on a backpack in the Goat Rocks Wilderness!
Distance: 22 miles
Elevation Gain: 5,000 ft
Difficulty: Hard
With rain predicted over western Washington, let's head to Gilbert Peak, the highest point in the Goat Rocks wilderness. From the trailhead in Conrad Meadows, we will hike through the forests of the eastern Cascades up to the alpine basin below Gilbert’s summit. We will camp in these meadows by Warm Lake. On day two, we will summit Gilbert via the Klickton Divide ridge route, which involves some low class 3 scrambling. We can take our time at the summit and enjoy the views of the other mountains and the glaciers.
Itinerary:
Day 1 (Saturday): Leave Seattle and drive to the trailhead. Hike to the camp at Warm Lake (8 miles, 2,500 ft. gain).
Day 2: Summit Gilbert Peak. From the lake, head south using whatever path appears convenient until the top of the ridge. Travel along the ridge with occasional class 2-3 scrambling until near the summit block (class 3). Return to camp (5 miles, 2,500 ft gain). Depending on timing and weather conditions, we can relax at Warm Lake camp, move camp to Surprise Lake for a change of scenery, or push back to the cars.
Day 3: Return to the cars, either using the same route as day one, or taking the alternate path for variety (8-9 miles, downhill).
Given the long drive (4 hours), I would prefer to do this in 3 days at a leisurely pace. However, the weather may not be favorable, in which case we will adjust the plan. Given the uncertainty, plans might change on short notice, but I will try to schedule something rather than cancel altogether.
Here is a gps track for the trip.
https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/ascent-of-gilbert-peak-on-2026-07-04-87e963c
You should have prior backpacking experience for this trip. Make sure you bring enough supplies and are able to carry a full pack for a considerable distance. It will be cooler than normal, so bring some warmer clothing.
Gear list:
Hiking Poles
Extra clothes / jacket
Hat / sun protection
Helmet (for scrambling)
Headlamp
Water
Water filter
Food
GPS
Bivy Sack or Tent*
Sleeping Bag
Sleeping Pad
Stove* and Fuel
Pot and eating utensil
Sanitary Supplies (including a WAG bag)
Bear Canister*
Any other ten essentials
*Starred gear can be shared. Everything else is individual. Remember that it can get cold overnight in the mountains, so bring some warmer clothes just in case.
Everyone will start on the waitlist. Preference will be shown towards those who hike with me often and I know are reliable. Details will be worked out via a Whatsapp chat.
Riders will reimburse their drivers for gas. Drivers will need a Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful Pass.
Important: I am not a guide and this is not a guided trip. Wilderness trips are inherently dangerous. You and yourself alone are responsible for your own safety. Please know your abilities before signing up.
