If you're craving a quick mountain escape with serious payoff, Kelly Butte in the Chinook Pass area should be on your radar. In just under four miles round-trip, this hike takes you through wildflower‑draped rock towers, steep switchbacks, and culminates at a restored fire lookout with sweeping views—Mount Rainier included on a clear day.
Located about two miles past Greenwater off Highway 410 in the Mount Baker–Snoqualmie National Forest, the trailhead is nestled at the end of a gravel forest road. The effort is short but sharp, and the reward—a historic lookout, alpine vistas, and seasonal wildflowers—makes it more than worth the drive.
Hike Details:
- Distance: ~3.4 miles round-trip
- Elevation Gain: ~1,100 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate (short & steep switchbacks)
- Dog-friendly: Yes, on-leash
Why You'll Love It:
This hike hits hard visually and atmospherically. You begin on a former logging road flanked by shady wild strawberry patches, then enter a steep, rocky ascent lined with penstemon, lupine, columbine, and beargrass. The switchbacks wind around volcanic rock formations, with the flora adding vibrant splashes of color. By late summer, huckleberry bushes near the summit offer a sweet snack break.
At the top, you’ll find the restored 1950s-era fire lookout—a cozy perch with picnic-worthy views over the valley. On clear days, Mount Rainier and nearby peaks define the horizon; even in mist, the scene is hauntingly beautiful.
Trail Insights:
The first ~0.6 miles are relatively gentle—wheelchair-accessible—perfect for warming up before the steeper climb. After that, stronger legs are required to tackle the elevated switchbacks.
@Outside Nancy noted on a recent trip report on wta.org:
"On the trail itself the wildflowers start showing once you leave the tree canopy. We saw several varieties of penstemon, paint brush, bear grass, lupine, columbine, Oregon grape, lousewort, star Solomon seal, phlox, groundswell, saxifrage, vanilla leaf and more. Trail traffic was super light we only saw 3 other people the entire time we were out."
Gravel Road 7030 leading to the trailhead is rough and narrow with washboard sections—passable in a standard car (but take it slow!). A Northwest Forest or Recreation Pass is required for parking, so be sure to bring that.
Tips for Your Adventure:
- Start early to claim a parking spot and enjoy a quieter trail.
- Bring a camera—rock towers and wildflower meadows make stunning subjects.
- Pack snacks and plan a leisurely lunch at the lookout.
- Bug spray helps during peak summer.
- Leashed dogs welcome, but be aware of terrain.
- Road access via gravel FS Road 7030—drive carefully and slowly.
- Bring a pass (Northwest Forest or Recreation Pass) for parking at the trailhead.
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