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Granite Mountain Trail

Snoqualmie National Forest, Washington · 3 min read

Distance
8.6 mi
Elevation Gain
3,800 ft
Difficulty
strenuous
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
July through October
Est. Time
6-9 hours
Dog Friendly
No
Kid Friendly
No
Difficulty Score
10 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
Vault Toilet
Parking
Fee Required
Cell Service
Limited
Water
Nearby
Camping
Dispersed
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Historic fire lookout at the 5,629-foot summit
  • Panoramic views of the Cascade Range and Snoqualmie Valley
  • Summer wildflower display on the open upper slopes
  • Challenging elevation gain on a well-defined trail
  • Part of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness
viewssummit

Granite Mountain in Snoqualmie National Forest rises to 5,629 feet above Snoqualmie Pass with a historic fire lookout at its summit and one of the more demanding trail profiles of the I-90 corridor hikes. The 8.6-mile round trip gains 3,800 feet, more vertical than many Washington summits, and rewards the effort with panoramic Cascade views and a summer wildflower display on the open upper slopes.

The fire lookout at the summit adds a human-history dimension to the natural scenery. The structure has been restored by volunteers and is recognized on the National Historic Lookout Register.

The Route

The trail begins at Exit 47 off I-90 and climbs steeply through forest before entering the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. The upper mountain is rocky and open, with wildflowers covering the slopes from late July through August. The summit lookout is visible for the final mile of the approach.

The lookout platform provides 360-degree views on clear days. Mount Rainier is visible to the south, the Stuart Range to the east, and the Seattle area to the west. The Snoqualmie Pass ski areas are visible directly below.

What to Expect

The 3,800-foot gain makes this one of the more physically demanding trails near Snoqualmie Pass. Plan for a full day and an early start. Dogs are not allowed.

The upper slopes can hold snow into July in heavy snow years. Check conditions before visiting in June or early July. Late July through September provides the most reliable access and the best wildflower displays.

Nearby

Snoqualmie Pass is at the trailhead area. The summit views encompass the entire I-90 corridor. North Bend, 20 miles west, is the full-service hub for the area.

Leave No Trace

This trail receives enough use that following Leave No Trace principles is important for preserving the experience for future visitors. Stay on the marked trail to prevent erosion. Pack out all waste. Avoid camping within 200 feet of water sources or the trail. Use existing fire rings only where campfires are permitted, and check current fire restrictions at checking conditions before you go before any visit. The trail and surrounding terrain remain in good condition because previous visitors have respected these norms.

Safety Considerations

The strenuous rating reflects the trail's general character under typical conditions. Weather, seasonal snow, and trail conditions can change the experience significantly. Carry the 10 Essentials on any full-day outing. Inform someone of your plans and expected return time before heading out, particularly on longer or more remote trails. Cell service varies throughout Snoqualmie National Forest and may be unreliable in canyon bottoms or remote terrain.

Trailhead Parking

Granite Mountain Trailhead off I-90 Exit 47 near Snoqualmie Pass. Paved lot; Northwest Forest Pass required as of 2026.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a fire lookout at the top?
Yes. The Granite Mountain Lookout is a historic fire lookout structure at the summit. It is staffed by volunteers and may be open for visits on summer weekends. The structure is listed on the National Historic Lookout Register.
Are dogs allowed?
No. The trail enters the Alpine Lakes Wilderness where dogs are prohibited.
How does this compare to other Snoqualmie hikes?
Granite Mountain is more challenging than Snow Lake (more elevation gain, similar distance) and offers different views due to its summit character. The fire lookout adds a unique historical element.
Is a permit required?
A Northwest Forest Pass is required for parking as of 2026. No additional wilderness permit is required for day hiking.