This year I'm particularly interested in first activations. One of the few remaining unactivated peaks within a couple hours drive from Seattle was Ebey Hill near Arlington, due to the access issues described in this previous pnwSOTA post by WA7JNJ.
The hike to Bob’s has almost doubled. From just over 3 mi RT to just over 6 mi RT. Elevation gain increased 400ft from 1100 to 1500. The Washington DNR has placed a new gate at 45.64596, -122.20734. There was no signage and I am not sure if the gate will always be closed. But seems prudent to plan on the longer hike. There is plenty of parking near the gate. Hopefully this will cut down on the amount of trash on the hill, which was always the down side of doing this peak.
Just an update: the road to the trailhead has been re-gravelled since we activated in 2023. Discovery Pass still required.
And it is possible to get closer to the summit by parking next to the electrical tower at (45.658181, -122.183540).
Bring a climbing helmet for this summit! Even under the trees, you're in the kill zone for falling rocks!
Summary - Bird Mountain, in the Indian Heaven Wilderness, combines good trails and a steep bushwhack (not for beginners). While makes for a longish day, link it with Lemei Rock for a two summit, twelve point outing. The trip from Portland to the Cultus Creek Campground (day fee or pass required) is about two hours on mosly paved roads. ATT digital service is good, as is APRS.
Summary - Lemi Rock, in the Indian Heaven Wilderness, combines good trails, a steep bushwhack (not for beginners), and some optional ridge scrambling. While makes for a longish day, link it with Bird Mountain for a two summit, twelve point outing. The trip from Portland to the Cultus Creek Campground (day fee or pass required) is about two hours on mosly paved roads. ATT digital service is good, as is APRS.
Overview:
Ascent:
Our adventure began at 8 a.m. from the Hannegan Trailhead. The trail offered a mostly shaded ascent to Boundary Camp, which was a welcome relief in the early hours. However, it's worth noting that this section is south-facing and can become quite hot by midday. The initial elevation gain was relatively gradual, with about 500 feet per mile over the first four miles.