Summit Columbia Mountain

The easiest way to reach the trailhead for Columbia Mountain is making an immediate right on Berne Rd. off of HWY 2 (right after the Mystery Spot and the Zipline). You'll turn left into the dirt parking lot (there's a decent amount of parking) and the trailhead is clearly visible. 

If you're aiming for the summit (7,226 ft.), you've got a lot of elevation gain ahead of you. Save for some elevation loss about two miles in (that's quickly regained), this trail doesn't relent. If it's been raining, be ready for a stream of water coming down the trail in certain spots. The trail is fairly well maintained. You're below treeline the majority of the hike, but there are plenty of breaks along the the way to check out the view below. 

 There's a gorgeous double falls around 2.5 miles in. To get to the falls, cross the creek and make an immediate left, following the creek up to the falls. It's an easy side trip on your way to the summit and also your last water source. 

Three miles in there's a great camping site with a rough fire pit and logs to sit on. This is a good place to stop for a break and set up your hammock or grab a snack. 

About 4-4.5 miles up you'll reach a series of 28 switchbacks that ascend toward the summit in the final two miles. This is the most grueling part of the hike. It's a leg-burning slog, but worth it.

When you near the summit you'll get to a trail junction, turn left for the final summit push. Turning right follows Alpine Trail #7, which can take you all the way into the Jewel Basin if you're up for a 50-mile trek. 

Enjoy the summit view! This is a great mountain biking trail too, but be ready to hike-a-bike on some of the steep spots with no traction. (Worth it for the ride down.) You can also run this trail if you're feeling extra ambitious.