Mount Pilchuck facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mount Pilchuck |
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Mount Pilchuck in winter
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 5,344 ft (1,629 m) NAVD 88 |
| Prominence | 2,860 ft (870 m) |
| Geography | |
| Location | Snohomish County, Washington, U.S. |
| Parent range | Cascades |
| Topo map | Mallardy Ridge |
Mount Pilchuck is a mountain located in Snohomish County, Washington. It is about 60 kilometers (37 miles) northeast of Seattle. This mountain is part of the Cascade Range, a large mountain chain in western North America.
Mount Pilchuck is a popular spot for outdoor adventures. It is known for its amazing views and a historic building at its top.
Exploring Mount Pilchuck
Mount Pilchuck is found within Mount Pilchuck State Park. However, the area around the mountain, including where trails begin (called the trailhead), is part of the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest.
The native Lushootseed name for this mountain is bəlalgʷa. The main trail to the top is kept in good condition by the United States Forest Service. This is true even though the trail is inside a state park! It's one of the most popular trails in the area because it's easy to get to. From the top, you can see wide, amazing views (called panoramic views). You can see the Cascade mountains to the east and the Puget Sound to the west.
The Historic Fire Lookout
At the very top of Mount Pilchuck, there is an old fire lookout tower. Long ago, people used this tower to spot forest fires. Today, it is a special shelter for hikers who reach the summit.
This old lookout tower is cared for by two groups: Washington State Parks and the Everett branch of The Mountaineers. They work together to keep it safe and useful for everyone.
Hiking Conditions
Sometimes, the trail to the top of Mount Pilchuck can still have snow on it even late into the summer. This means hikers need to be prepared for different weather conditions, especially if they plan to visit in early summer.
