Saddle Mountain 12/31/15

[samgonemudding]

We meandered up Saddle mountain for the 30th and were greeted with great views and surprisingly easy passage over the snow. The road has been cleared from a few fallen trees up to the trailhead though it was icy in the parking lot, there was no snow on the road. Go slow on the road, the pot-holes could swallow small children. There is snow from the parking lot all the way to the summit with patches of dirt trail. The weather has been re-melting the snow so it is icy in the morning and a bit more mushy mid-day. Travel is mostly safe minus a few areas where a slip could end in disaster. Travel through the saddle is the most dangerous because the slope and frequent use has created icy spots that are hard to gain traction on. The summit view was clear with views of Hood, Rainier, Helens, Adams, the Coast, and Astoria.

There are 2 port-potties at the trailhead and $5 fee or Forrest pass to park. We just had boots and a jackets and were fine. We saw a few people summit with sneakers thanks to the early frozen snow but afternoon would be wet feet I would imagine. Warm approach needed only light pants and sweater but a few layers for the summit were warranted.

[Pdxmaestro]

Thanks for the trip report. I did Saddle Mt. in the summer and found it to be the hardest hike I have ever done. It's not for sissy's lol. Good job !

[maryannpdx]

I did Saddle Mt. in the summer and found it to be the hardest hike I have ever done. It's not for sissy's lol. Good job !

I agree! This one kicks my butt every time.

[justpeachy]

That hike is a lung-buster for sure, especially with snow!

There are 2 port-potties at the trailhead and $5 fee or Forrest pass to park.

There never used to be a parking fee there. And the website doesn't say anything it. Is that new?

Also, even if there is a parking fee, the Northwest Forest Pass doesn't work in state parks.