Hike up Mount Erie

There are two ways to reach the summit of Mount Erie: by hiking or driving. Driving is obviously the easy route, while hiking can be a bit difficult. Especially due to the impressive number of trails that vary in length to the summit (I suggest you stop and buy a map from city hall or print one off online). This is an often overlooked feature, as you can customize your hike. You can opt to take the easier trails if you have young ones hiking along (this will increase your mileage), or opt for a more intense hike (steeper, shorter mileage). Depending on which hike you choose, you may end up having a different view point. For example, some trails will lead you to the road where you will follow the road up to the summit.

For me though, this just doesn’t do. I refuse to touch the pavement once I begin my hikes. So, I will give you the quick secret on how to reach the summit of Mount Erie without intersecting the road, all the while getting up there efficiently (though hiker be warned, this specific route is not for the faint of heart or for young children).

Don’t be fooled by how easy the hike starts - less than 5 minutes in you will begin to get a workout. When the trail begins to split, follow the 215 trail number. This is a steep route but is well worth it. I suggest starting this hike early in the morning as you can often catch the sun’s rays dancing between the trees (it makes for some killer photography shots). You will follow the 215 trail number until you see an intersection with the number 225. From there follow the 225 route. Don’t get caught up in trying to rush up as fast as you can - admire your surroundings as the hike will end before you know it.

Upon another junction, switch to trail number 226 - there will be one final switch of your trail route. You will come to a junction that is blocked to bikes/horseback, trail number 238. You want to SKIP this first route. Less than .4 you will approach another junction that once again is blocked to bikers and horseback - you will now follow this trail number (238) directly to the top. Your hard work will be paid off by the phenomenal views of the Puget Sound that greet you as you leave the trees behind you and approach the now rocky terrain. Pause to enjoy. Realize that you just hiked up Mount Erie in 1.2 miles (and for the majority of hikers in less than an hour). It should take 20-40 minutes to hike back down. Be warned: tread carefully down; there are many opportunities to slip and lose your footing, especially when the ground is damp or if there is fall foliage.

Route index:* 215* Immediately to 225* Immediately to 226* Skip the FIRST 238* Take the SECOND 238