Mount Pilchuck State Park

Mount Pilchuck State Park is a nature reserve in the Cascade Mountains covering over 1,900 acres of forested terrain. A main trail of roughly 5 miles round trip climbs steadily upward, leading hikers through evergreen forests to the exposed summit.

A fire lookout tower was built on the summit in 1918 and remained staffed for wildfire monitoring until the 1960s. This structure reflects an era when observation posts were critical for protecting the surrounding forests.

The name comes from a Native American word meaning red water, referring to a creek in the surrounding landscape. Visitors connect with this local meaning as they walk through the wooded terrain.

Visitors need a forest access permit to enter the park and should carry plenty of water since none is available at the trailhead. The trail becomes muddy and slippery in wet conditions, so sturdy footwear is recommended.

The site once housed a ski resort operated by Washington State Parks from 1957 to 1980, eventually closing due to unreliable snow. This chapter in the park's past demonstrates how mountain recreation areas adapt to changing conditions.

Location: Snohomish County

Operator: Washington State Parks

Website: https://parks.state.wa.us/548/Mount-Pilchuck

GPS coordinates: 48.05276,-121.78620

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:11