Bald Eagle Mountain trail #650

Highlights: Mountain views, forest

Distance: 9.7 miles one-way

Beginning Elevation : 3900 feet

Ending Elevation: 5600 feet

Difficulty level: More Difficult

Map(s): Green Trails #143

Visitor Use: Low

SUMMARY:This trail follows the boundary between the Skykomish and Darrington Ranger Districts in the Henry M. Jackson Wilderness Area. It is part of a loop which connects the Quartz Creek and the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail.

The loop from Quartz Creek Trail #1050 to Bald Eagle Mountain Trail #650 and back down the North Fork Skykomish Trail #1051 is 22.5 miles.

This trail is one for those who enjoy incredible views and fields of flowers. On a day trip you can enjoy the sights of Pride Basin and Monte Cristo peaks. From Curry Gap via the Quartz Creek, the Bald Eagle Mountain switchbacks up to the ridge top through partially open timber, offering views of Sloan Peak.

The majority of the trail stays high near the ridge tops and open meadows. The trail skirts Bald Eagle Mountain, Long John Mountain, and June Mountain. Good camping spots can be found at all three of these mountains.

East of June Mountain, a side trail departs north and downward to Little Blue Lake and Blue Lake. From June Mountain, the trail continues traveling east traversing large open slopes full of wildflowers in late July, early August until the junction of the Pacific Crest Trail and Dishpan Gap are met in 3 miles.

TRAILHEAD ACCESS:Drive State Route 2, turn north at the Index turn-off onto the North Fork Skykomish River Road #63. Continue for 20.7 miles to Quartz Creek Trailhead #1050 on the left side of the parking area. Follow Trail #1050 to the junction with Bald Eagle MountainTrail #650 at Curry Gap (4.4 mi.)

Note: At 15.7 miles, Road #63 makes a sharp turn to the north. If you continue traveling east, you will be on the #65 road.

Northwest Forest Pass required to park: Yes

TRAILGUIDE

Best Seasons: Late Spring/Summer/Fall

AREA

US2 Skykomish River Index

RANGER STATION (NEAREST)

Skykomish Ranger Station

TRAIL REVIEW submit your review

Notice: Hiking in the backcountry can be dangerous. Information on this website comes from a variety of sources. You have to be responsible for using good common sense and researching trails carefully. Things change constantly in the outdoors.

Use caution while hiking so you can enjoy it safely. Don't get in over your head. A call to the ranger station and avalanche hotline(winter) are highly recommended. Bring the ten essentials and make sure someone knows where you are going and expect to be back.