Baring, Washington

Hike to Bare Mountain

8.6 Miles Total - 3300 ft gain - Out-and-Back Trail

Originally added by The Outbound Collective

Hike to panoramic views of Mount Rainier, Glacier Peak, Mount Baker, and the Olympics, to name a few, at this former fire lookout. Wildflowers in spring, blueberries in summer, and changing leaves in fall make this a trail worth repeating.

The hike starts out with two crossings over Bear Creek, the first over often slippery logs when the water is high, and the second on a wood bridge. After passing by a boulder field, look for switchbacks starting on your left, which take you on a steady climb up to the summit. Before reaching the summit, a short side trail leads to a lookout above Paradise Lake and Bench Lake.

At the summit, you are greeted with awesome views of Mount Rainier, Glacier Peak, Mount Baker, the Olympics, Mount Phelps, Goat Mountain, Twin Peaks, and Snoqualmie Pass.

Photo Credit: davemunroe4

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Megan Paulsen

Hike to Bare Mountain

over 4 years ago

Views that are worth it

This has been one of my favorite hikes to date. It's a bit of a drive through the forest roads but it was absolutely worth it! My journey began early on a Sunday morning, as most of my hikes do. On my drive to the trailhead I even saw a mama and baby bear - a pleasantly awesome surprise! Most of the hike isn't too difficult until you get a little over half way and the switchbacks and steepness increases. The first half has lots of tree coverage. When you're almost to the top there is a landing to the right that has views of the lake! Make sure to check that out because it's a pretty spectacular view on a sunny day. Proceed back onto the main trail where it goes to the top. Once you're at the top, there are 360 degree views of mother nature doing the damn thing (aka, looking as beautiful as ever)! On a clear day you can even see Mt. Rainier.