- Three Fingers/Goat Flats/Saddle Lake Trail No. 641 Round Trip Distance: 16 miles Trailhead elevation: 3020 feet Summit elevation: 6,870 feet Cumulative Vertical Gain: 4,000+ feet […] The trail climbs gradually for 2.5 miles to Saddle Lake. There are plenty of mud and roots on this rut of a trail. There is evidence that earlier in the season, this part of the trail may actually be a small stream. Rumor has it that if you plan an earlier season trip, you should expect to get a little wet and mud-covered. There are quite a few minor ups and downs along the way. If the skies are clear, after a mile or so, you will catch the first really good view of Three Fingers off to your left. If your eyes are good (better than mine), you will be able to make out the white lookout house on the summit of the South finger.
- Mountain Loop Highway (summitpost.org)
The Mountain Loop Highway is home to many popular cascade hikes and climbs. There is no doubt that the scenic beauty of the Mountain Loop Highway Peaks far exceeds that of the I-90 corridor Peaks. There is more diversity in wildlife, foliage, and summit blocks are generally more rugged and exposed. The Mountain Loop Highway is a well kept secret among the locals of Washington State with the exception of Mount Pilchuck, trails are seldom crowded and tranquil isolation is the norm.
