Mount Ellinor

Mount Ellinor offers two primary trailheads. The Lower Trailhead provides a longer, 6.6-mile round trip with approximately 3,300 feet of elevation gain, starting with a more gradual climb through old-growth forests. The Upper Trailhead offers a shorter, 3.2 to 3.3-mile round trip with about 2,300 to 2,444 feet of elevation gain, but it begins with a much steeper ascent. Both are accessed from National Forest Road 24 north of Lake Cushman.

Yes, a Northwest Forest Pass is required to park at the Upper Trailhead. While the Lower Trailhead may not always require a pass, it's always a good idea to check current regulations or have one available when visiting National Forest lands.

The time required varies significantly based on the chosen trailhead and individual fitness. From the Upper Trailhead, hikers can expect a round trip of 3 to 5 hours. Starting from the Lower Trailhead, the longer distance and greater elevation gain typically extend the hike to 5 to 8 hours or more.

Mount Ellinor is generally considered a challenging hike due to its steep and strenuous nature. While the Lower Trailhead offers a more gradual start through forests, the overall elevation gain and terrain make it less ideal for very young children or absolute beginners. There are no specific 'beginner' or 'family-friendly' routes mentioned that significantly reduce the difficulty. Hikers should be prepared for a demanding ascent.

Mount Ellinor is well-known for its wildlife, particularly mountain goats, which are frequently sighted near the summit. Hikers may also encounter other forest animals in the lower elevations, such as deer and various bird species. Always observe wildlife from a respectful distance.

The warmer months are the most popular for hiking Mount Ellinor, offering the best conditions for reaching the summit and enjoying the views. However, this also means higher crowds, especially on weekends. For a potentially less crowded experience, consider hiking on weekdays or during the shoulder seasons (late spring/early fall), though you should be prepared for cooler temperatures and possible snow at higher elevations.

Yes, winter hiking on Mount Ellinor is possible and offers a unique experience, including the option for glissading down a snow chute. However, it requires significant preparation and specialized gear. Hikers should be proficient in winter mountaineering skills and carry equipment such as ice axes, crampons, snowshoes, and appropriate avalanche safety gear. Conditions can be extreme, and routes may be obscured by snow.

The Mount Ellinor trailheads are located within the Olympic National Forest, which is a relatively remote area. There are no cafes or direct amenities at the trailheads themselves. Visitors will need to travel to nearby towns, such as Hoodsport or Shelton, for dining, groceries, and accommodation options. It's advisable to bring all necessary supplies with you.

Mount Ellinor was named in 1853 by surveyor George Davidson after his fiancée, Ellinor Fauntleroy. The area also holds deeper historical significance as the ancestral lands of the Skokomish Twana people, with tribal legends connecting the mountain to a great flood. The first American settlers known to have reached the summit did so in August 1879.

While the main trails from the Lower and Upper Trailheads are the most common, the mountain's steep and rugged terrain can offer more advanced scrambling or mountaineering challenges, particularly in winter or early season when snow and ice are present. These routes are typically off-trail and require advanced skills, experience, and appropriate gear. Always research conditions thoroughly and consider hiring a guide for technical ascents.

Beyond the spectacular 360-degree panoramic views from the summit, the trail itself offers several notable features. Hikers starting from the Lower Trailhead will pass through beautiful old-growth Douglas fir forests. As you ascend, you'll transition into subalpine meadows and rocky ridges, providing increasingly expansive views of Lake Cushman, the Hood Canal, and distant peaks. Keep an eye out for mountain goats, especially as you approach the upper sections of the trail.