Alta Mountain

Alta Mountain- Snoqualmie Region

Elevation Gain: 3,300 ft

Roundtrip Distance: 12 miles

Northwest Forest Pass

Getting there: The Alta Mountain trailhead is roughly an hour and a half (74.5 miles) from Seattle Pacific University via I-90E, driving a little beyond Snoqualmie Pass. Routing yourself with google maps to the “Rachel Lake Trailhead” will bring you to the correct parking lot to start your adventure but be prepared to lose service and paved roads as you enter the Alpine Wilderness area after Lake Kachess Campground.  

Trailhead: This trail requires a Northwest Forest Pass, however there is a self-issue day pass station when you arrive at the trailhead. Be sure to bring at least five dollars in cash or in loose change around your car to place in the envelope. There is a restroom at the trailhead and at Rachel Lake so drink coffee accordingly.

On the trail: Start with the trail to Rachel Lake that begins with stroll through old growth forest but steepens as it nears the lake. Once at the lake, follow the path marked by the signage “Trail” until you reach the junction for Rampart Lakes and Lila Lake.  Take the right turn for Lila Lake until you arrive at an unmarked junction. Continue left for Alta Mountain. Alta Mountain is non-technical, steep climb along a ridge that offers amazing 360 views of Mt. Rainier, Mt. Thomson, Hibox, and Chikamins Peak. Wear sturdy shoes as this climb requires some precision of footing and grip through loose rock.

ORP Suggestion: Turn Alta Mountain into a short side-trip during a backpacking trip at Lila Lake, Rampart Lakes or Rachel Lake.