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Features
Fall Colors · Views · Wildflowers
Overview
McClellan Butte is a very prominent peak that can be seen from I-90 sticking out like a sharks fin above the South Fork of the Snoqualmie River. Although it may look tough to get to the top, the ascent is mostly hiking on a trail, with a final (and optional) summit push of hand-and-foot rock scrambling. - Overview by Josh Bukoskey, Outdoor Project
Need to Know
If you want to traverse the summit, its best to wait for dry conditions because these rocks get very slippery. Some parties might opt to carry a rope and belay up during wet or snowy weather.
Description
A longer, challenging hike that you'll have all to yourself for the most part. First two-thirds is treed but opens up near the top with sweeping views of Rainier to the south for the last third.
The final half-mile of the trail circles the southwest side of the mountain ridge where you'll notice a large rocky summit block. Luckily, the summit block offers great handholds and plenty of places to put your feet to keep you feeling safe. This is some of the best climbing/scrambling you could hope for, though the fall exposure is significant.
Even if you don't want to do the scramble, you are still rewarded with awesome views near the top.
History & Background
This peak was named after George B. McClellan, a surveyor and Civil War General. He surveyed the Cascade Mountains in search of the best mountain pass to be used for a transcontinental railroad system.
Contacts
Shared By:
Ryan Boxy
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