Glacier Peak Wilderness

Located in the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie and Wenatchee National Forests.

The Glacier Peak Wilderness contains 576,865 acres of land and is 35 miles long and 20 miles wide. The wilderness stretches from the shore of Lake Chelan to the towering firs and cedars along the Suiattle River. Between these two points lie some of the most spectacular peaks in the Cascade Range and more glaciers than any other wilderness in the lower 49 states. There are 450 miles of trails, countless opportunities for rugged cross-country travel and numerous peaks which are popular with climbers.

Glacier Peak is the dominant geologic feature of the area and is the most remote of the major volcanic peaks in the Cascade Range. It is 10,541 feet high, the 4th highest peak in Washington. This dormant volcano last erupted 12,000 years ago, spreading ash as far away as eastern Idaho.

Most years the Wilderness is still buried under 10-20 feet of snow in May. Usually most trails and passes are snow free by mid-August, but this varies from year to year. Most of the main trails are maintained once a year, lesser used trails ate maintained about every 2 to 3 years. Snow and cold rain can occur in mid-summer.

Game abounds in the Wilderness; one can often see deer, mountain goat, black bear, grouse, coyote and even a fox may sometimes be seen. Rabbit, porcupine, plus smaller animals, such as field mice are in constant attendance and can be almost certain to visit your camp during the night. The high mountain lakes often give good catches of fish during their ice-free months.

For more information contact: The Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie or Wenatchee National Forests.