Park Butte to Railroad Grade

Dogs Leashed

Features Commonly Backpacked · Geological Significance · River/Creek · Views · Waterfall · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Not actually a train track, Railroad Grade is named for its steady ascent up Mount Baker. It essentially bee-lines straight up a ridge, and as you walk it you'll be staring straight into a glacier. The route actually continues all the way onto the Easton Glacier, and some mountaineers and skiers use this as the primary access to reach the summit of the mountain. Ascending just to the snow line is the more popular option for day hiking and backpacking.

Weather here can be variable, and changes rapidly in the shoulder seasons. Always bring sun protection along with an extra layer for rain or wind, and be prepared to turn around if the weather becomes unsafe.
A Northwest Forest Pass is required for parking.
Restrooms available at trailhead.

The first 2.4 miles to Railroad Grade follow the Park Butte Trail. Begin along a dirt path behind the restrooms, strolling easily past picnic tables and crossing over Sulphur Creek into Schreibers Meadow. Lined with heather in the summer and mushrooms and mountain berry bushes in the fall, the trail becomes a boardwalk here before returning to dirt. This first mile is easy and passes in and out of the forest, offering occasional glimpses of the mountain overhead. Cross the seasonal bridge over glacier-fed Rocky Creek, or ford the creek if the bridge has washed out.

You'll eventually make your way out of the old-growth forest and climb out into a mountainside meadow, where there is a sign for the split to Park Butte. Do not take that, instead turn right and head up the stone steps. You'll pass some backcountry campsites and a signed "trail to water," which leads to a reflective tarn. At approximately 3 miles from the start, you'll reach the edge of a glacial moraine and the start of the RRG ridgeline. Peer over the steep edge at a glacier-fed creek below, then begin the steady climb toward Easton Glacier.

Depending on snow levels, you may be able to hike half a mile or more up the grade. At 3.5 miles you'll reach High Camp (below, to the left), a good turn-around point. The trail steepens from here, climbing to Sandy Camp at 4 miles. Beyond Sandy Camp, the path is climber's territory. Snap some photos of the glacier, then head back to the Park Butte junction. If you have the time and energy, add the hike just over a mile out to Park Butte Lookout for more breathtaking views.