changes and the understory of the fir and tamarack forest is lush pine grass. About 250 vertical feet from the top, steep outcrops of rock intersect the trail and the route cleverly zigzags up a series of benches, ledges and shelves without ever really becoming difficult. It seems unlikely as you look uphill, but you never need to use your hands for more than a few points of balance. Advanced mountain bikers will also be interested and rolling down all but the very top of this steep but relatively smooth trail. Much of the trail is too steep for the average rider to climb — those willing to hike- a-bike up, however, will sport a smug grin after the quick roll back down.Distance: 4.8 miles (round trip).
The rocky and faint trail serves up a good dose of adventure.
Elevation gain: 2,200 vertical feet.
Skill: Intermediate (2) for hikers, advanced (3) for mountain biking.
Fitness: 2 (intermediate).
Access. From the south end of Tonasket, turn onto Highway 20 east. Follow this about 31.5 miles to milepost 293.5. On the opposite side of the Highway from the Sweat Creek Picnic area, turn right (south) onto Forest Road 31 (aka Road 3100). Follow this 0.4 mile to the small sign marking the start of the trail. Drive about 150 feet beyond the sign and park in a small pullout on the left (east) side of the road. No permit required.
Map. See our topo map.
GPS File: For the waypoints noted on our map, go here and download the file ‘SweatCrk-FirMtn.gpx‘
Trip Instructions. – Start up the trail. In about 100 yards go through a primitive cattle fence. Shut the fence behind you. In another 150 to 200 feet, come to an intersection with a flat trail coming in from the left. Ignore this trail and go straight on the trail that climbs more steeply.
Views from Fir Mountain’s summit.
* Keep climbing, often steeply. There are no other intersections to worry about. About 250 vertical feet from the top, you’ll run into rock outcrops blocking the trail, but ramps and shelves zigzag upward without forcing you to scramble much. If you’re using your hands for more than to occasional point of balance or high step, you’ve not found the easiest way up.
* From the top enjoy the views; then make a fast descent by retracing the same route.
Land Ownership: Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest.
Permits: None required.
Leave It Better Than You Found It: This should be every outdoor user’s goal. Pick up trash left by others, pull some noxious weeds along your route, throw branches over unwanted spur trails, don’t ride or walk wet trails when you’re leaving ruts/footprints deeper than ¼ inch.
Disclaimer. Treat this information as recommendations, not gospel. Conditions change and those contributing these reports are volunteers–they may make mistakes or not know all the issues affecting a route. You are responsible for yourself, your actions, and your safety. If you won’t accept that responsibility, you are prohibited from using our information.
This post was originally published on 8/7/14.
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