West Granite Mt

Date: Jan 17
Difficulty: Challenging (Winter Scramble)
Elevation Gain: ~3,800 ft
Round Trip: ~8 miles

Ready to swap your holiday shopping bags for crampons? Join us for a winter ascent of Granite Mountain, a true Washington classic that transforms into a shimmering alpine playground once the snow settles in.

This isn’t just a hike—it’s a full-on winter scramble adventure. Think steep snow slopes, ice-crusted ridgelines, and a famous fire lookout that feels like it’s floating above the world. On a clear day, you’ll score a panorama featuring Rainier flexing on the horizon, the Snoqualmie Pass peaks, and maybe even a cheeky mountain goat judging your uphill technique.

🌨️ What to Expect

• A steep and steady climb right from the trailhead—no warm-up lap here.

• Winter navigation: snowshoes or microspikes depending on conditions.

• A chance to practice self-arrest and travel on compact snow.

• A summit moment that makes you forget how many times you questioned your life choices on the way up.

🎒 Required Gear

• Microspikes + trekking poles (snowshoes may be needed depending on depth)

• Helmet for the upper scramble

• Insulated gloves, warm layers, wind shell

• Headlamp (because winter daylight is basically on part-time hours)

• Ten essentials

• Hot drink strongly encouraged for morale

👥 Who This Is For

Confident hikers transitioning into winter scrambling, seasoned adventurers looking to dust off their ice axes, and anyone who loves Type-2 fun with spectacular rewards.

🏔️ Why Join?

Because winter changes everything—from the mood to the terrain—and Granite becomes an absolute gem when it’s wearing white. Plus, our group energy will keep things safe, supportive, and way more enjoyable than going solo.