Tonga Ridge Trail #1058Highlights: Mountain views, forest, meadows, Alpine Lakes Wilderness Distance: 4.6 miles one-way Beginning Elevation : 4300 feet Ending Elevation: 3700 feet Difficulty level: Easiest Map(s): Green Trails #175 and 176 Visitor Use: Heavy SUMMARY:The first mile of this south-facing trail is uphill, not too steep though, slowly climbing through second growth timber into open meadows. The next couple of miles cut straight across a steep hillside with a few trees along the way for shade. The views across the valley to the Alpine Lakes Wilderness are spectacular. The last half mile is through woods and meadow. The meadow at the end of the trail, Sawyer Pass, is beautiful, and you can find some nice campsites here. There is no water along this trail. Tonga Ridge is a favorite spot for huckleberries in the fall.
TRAILHEAD ACCESS:Drive State Route 2 for 1.7 miles east of the Skykomish. Turn south onto Foss River Road #68. Continue on Road #68 for 3.5 miles to its junction with #6830 road. Turn left onto Road #6830. Continue for 6.0 miles to the 310 spur road. Turn right onto the spur and drive 1.0 mile to the end of the spur at the trailhead. Northwest Forest Pass required to park: Yes TRAILGUIDE Best Seasons: Summer/Fall AREA US2 Skykomish River Stevens Pass 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.
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