Scorpion Mountain

The hike to Scorpion Mountain via the Johnson Ridge Trail is a strenuous 9.0-mile round trip. Given the 2,650 feet of elevation gain, most hikers should plan for a full day, typically 5-7 hours, depending on pace and stops for views.

Scorpion Mountain is located within the Wild Sky Wilderness. While specific permits for day hiking are generally not required, it's always advisable to check the latest regulations with the U.S. Forest Service for any potential changes or specific trailhead requirements, especially for overnight stays.

While the best time to visit is July to October, winter hiking is possible for experienced individuals. However, the trail can be snow-covered and icy, making it significantly more challenging. Essential winter gear would include snowshoes or microspikes, trekking poles, warm layers, and avalanche safety equipment, as conditions can be hazardous. Always check weather and avalanche forecasts before attempting a winter ascent.

Access to Scorpion Mountain is typically via the Johnson Ridge Trailhead. Parking is available at the trailhead, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends during peak season. Arriving early in the morning is highly recommended to secure a spot.

The primary route to Scorpion Mountain's summit via the Johnson Ridge Trail is considered strenuous with significant elevation gain, making it less suitable for young children or beginner hikers. There are no designated beginner-friendly routes to the summit itself. However, shorter, less challenging trails might be available in the broader Wild Sky Wilderness area for families looking for easier options.

As part of the Wild Sky Wilderness, Scorpion Mountain is home to diverse wildlife. Hikers might spot various bird species, deer, and smaller mammals. While less common, larger animals like black bears and mountain goats also inhabit the area, so it's wise to carry bear spray and know how to react to wildlife encounters.

Scorpion Mountain is located near Skykomish, a small town that offers limited amenities. For more extensive options regarding cafes, pubs, or accommodation, visitors would likely need to travel to larger towns further east or west along Highway 2, such as Leavenworth or Monroe.

Scorpion Mountain stands out for its relatively accessible yet challenging ridge trail that culminates in a grassy summit offering exceptional 360-degree panoramic views, including Glacier Peak. Its location within the Wild Sky Wilderness also provides a sense of pristine natural beauty, and it's particularly noted for its abundant huckleberries and blueberries in the fall.

While the hike offers views of Joan Lake below the summit, accessing it involves a steep descent from the main trail. There are no officially designated or easily accessible wild swimming spots directly along the main Scorpion Mountain hiking route. Any off-trail exploration to reach lakes would be at your own risk and require significant bushwhacking.

Scorpion Mountain is known for its abundant huckleberries and blueberries. The best time to find these berries is typically in the late summer to early fall, generally from August through September. This coincides with the peak hiking season and offers an added reward for reaching the summit.

The terrain on the Scorpion Mountain summit trail, particularly the Johnson Ridge Trail, is varied. It traverses through mature forests initially, then transitions to a ridge trail with steep slopes on either side. Hikers can expect a mix of dirt paths, rocky sections, and potentially some exposed areas, especially closer to the summit. Appropriate footwear with good ankle support is highly recommended.