Overview
Abercrombie Mountain is the highest point in Colville National Forest, rising to 7,308 feet in the Selkirk Mountains near the Canadian border. The summit provides a true three-country-adjacent viewpoint: Canada to the north, Idaho to the east, and the broad Columbia Plateau of eastern Washington to the west. The trail is one of the most rewarding summit hikes in northeastern Washington for the views alone.
The approach passes through old-growth subalpine fir and Engelmann spruce, with the forest character typical of the near-boreal mountain zone close to the Canadian border. These old-growth stands have trunks exceeding three feet in diameter in places, and the canopy closes tightly enough that the forest floor stays cool and shaded well into summer mornings. The mountain is near the Salmo-Priest Wilderness ecosystem, and the wildlife diversity reflects that adjacency: mountain goats occasionally appear on the rocky summit slopes, black bears move through the berry-producing shrub zones, and a range of subalpine bird species including Clark's nutcracker and varied thrush are present in the forest.
The Route
Trailhead to Upper Forest (Mile 0 to 2.0)
From the trailhead on Forest Road 300, the trail climbs through old-growth subalpine forest on a consistent grade. The first two miles are the most densely forested section of the route. The trail tread is good through this section, though roots and occasional wet sections require attention. The dense canopy means this lower section stays cooler than the open summit zone, making the temperature contrast between forest and summit more noticeable.
Forest to Summit Ridge (Mile 2.0 to 2.8)
The trail steepens and the forest opens as the trail gains the rocky summit ridge. Views begin here and expand steadily toward the summit. The shift from old-growth canopy to open rock happens quickly, and the transition area hosts subalpine wildflowers including lupine and paintbrush in July. The exposed ridgeline can be windy; the wind tends to carry from the west.
Summit (Mile 2.8 to 3.2)
The summit is rocky and open, with a small summit register tube. Views encompass British Columbia, Idaho, the Selkirk Mountains, and the Columbia Plateau to the west. On very clear days in September, the outline of the Cascades range is visible far to the west. Return via the same route.
When to Hike
July through September is primary season. Snow typically covers the upper trail and summit area into early July. A late June or early July visit may require navigating snow patches on the upper section.
September offers the best clarity for long-distance international views. Fall larch color appears on the lower slopes in late September, adding a visual element that summer visits lack. The summit itself is above larch elevation, but the golden-needled trees visible through gaps in the approach forest make the September timing worthwhile.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry 2 liters of water. A small spring may be accessible near the trailhead in the early season, but it cannot be relied on for later summer trips; plan to carry your full supply. Individual hydration needs vary with pace and temperature.
Wind layers are important on the exposed rocky summit, where the ridge funnels prevailing westerly winds. Download offline maps before leaving town: cell service is absent on Forest Road 300.
Trailhead Access
Forest Road 300 north of Metaline Falls is reached via Highway 31. The drive north from Metaline Falls to the trailhead covers approximately 12 miles on progressively rougher gravel. The last several miles are rough enough that high-clearance vehicles are recommended; passenger cars with low clearance may have difficulty. No permit required (as of 2026). No restroom at the trailhead.
Nearby
The Salmo Loop Trail and Noisy Creek Trail access the Salmo-Priest Wilderness from nearby trailheads in the same Selkirk Mountain region, offering extensions into one of the most ecologically significant wilderness areas in Washington.
Check conditions and fire restrictions before your trip at Checking Conditions Before You Go. Follow Leave No Trace 7 Principles.