Sourdough Mountain Trail

Dogs No Dogs

Features Fall Colors · River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

This is a great trail, not too difficult but be prepared for a steady uphill!

The trail starts behind the old basketball court in the town of Diablo. Your route will start right up the mountain, and the trail stays true to its beginnings... up,up,up. The trail itself is in good condition, smooth and shaded for the first half or more. Then it becomes open and exposed for the rest of the trip. The last water source is Sourdough Creek, so fill up there or pay the consequences at the top!

The views from the summit have got to be some of the best in the whole of the North Cascades National Park. The views are well worth every drop of sweat it takes to see them.

Once you've enjoyed your fill of the summit, you can head down the backside of Sourdough Mountain. The trail on this side of the mountain is still plenty steep, but there will be spots where you'll get some respite. Enjoy the views of Ruby Lake as you work your way down the the water's edge, though the trail is heavily forested, and a clear view may be difficult to find.

From the end of this trail, you can spend the night at the Cougar Island Campground, or you can retrace your steps for a long return to Diablo.

Bears, always bears.