Red Mountain approach?

[Jamie]

If it isn't already too late in the season, I'd still like to climb Red Mountain near Snoqualmie Pass this year. When I look at the maps I See a labyrinth of trails. Is the usual approach just taking the new PCT trail up to the (Red-Lundin) saddle? My guide books were all written before the PCT was changed in this area. ...and thanks!

[tazz]

take the Commonwealth basin trail.

Map by ragman.

[Jamie]

Perfect,

Thanks a million Tazz!

[Le Piston]

Red Mountain also makes a nice winter trip.

[Rafe1234]

That looks pretty good for skiing actually. I hiked up there last weekend to see if the terrain would be any good and it didn't really look like it would be. Coupled with the backside of Snoqualmie I bet that'd be a sick place to get turns.

[Joe_Poulton]

Red Mountain also makes a nice winter trip.

 

Nice shot...I'll have to ride that this winter!

[JoshK]

Oh that picture looks awesome...getting me excited for winter.

[cascadesdj]

You save a lot of time using that Commonwealth cutoff old trail. The crest trail was built with specs requiring low grade, so it has to meander around and contour to avoid the steeps. To start on the old trail, begin in the PCT and in a couple of hundred feet or so, keep looking left and see a narrow gravel wash/trail with branches leaning in from both sides. that's it. You'll cross the creek in less than a mile, and then meander around the creek basin until eventually coming to a junction that could link you up with the PCT. That would require a hairpin right turn. Instead, take the left, or straight and follow it up the ridge to Red.