Join us for a beautiful hike to Mount Ellinor on the Olympic Peninsula. This challenging and rewarding hike offers incredible panoramic views of Lake Cushman, the Olympic Mountains, and Puget Sound. We will hike from the Mount Ellinor Lower Trailhead to the summit and celebrate Mass with Fr. Justin Ryan before descending back to the trailhead together. Depending on timing and interest, we may also stop for food together on the way home.
Due to the length of the drive and the difficulty of the hike, the plan is to meet at the trailhead by 07:45 AM and begin hiking promptly at 08:00 AM. Recommended departure time from Seattle or Blessed Sacrament parking lot is 05:15 AM. We expect to return to Seattle around 06:00–07:00 PM, depending on pace, weather, ferry/traffic conditions, and any food stop afterward.
Details
This is a strenuous hike. From the lower trailhead, the hike is approximately 6.2 miles round trip with about 3,300 feet of elevation gain and a highest point of 5,944 feet.
The trail begins in old growth forest before climbing steeply toward rocky slopes and panoramic summit views. Expect sustained elevation gain and exposed sections near the top.
Here is the WTA site for more information:
Washington Trails Association – Mount Ellinor
What to Wear and Bring
Water: 2-3 liters recommended
Snacks and lunch
Sturdy hiking boots/shoes
Layers: base layer, fleece or warm sweater, rain/wind shell
Hiking pants (not jeans)
Hat and gloves
Sunglasses
Sunscreen and lip balm
Trekking poles (optional but recommended)
Extra socks and change of clothes for after the hike
Headlamp or flashlight recommended
Carpooling Info
If you want to find a carpool (as a driver or passenger), you must meet in the Blessed Sacrament parking lot NO LATER than 05:15 AM and find a carpool there. Meet-up time is 07:45 AM at the Mount Ellinor Lower Trailhead. Please note that parking at the lower trailhead is limited. We recommend giving $10/person to your driver to help with gas.
Instructions to Get There
You can use Google Maps to navigate to the Mount Ellinor Lower Trailhead here:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/UgjE4jtn5xZBrbCr8
The drive is approximately 2.5 hours from Seattle depending on traffic.
Disclaimer
Inclement weather, snow conditions, or trail conditions may affect the plan for this event. We will assess conditions beforehand and notify participants via email of any changes. Please note that Mount Ellinor can retain snow into late spring and early summer, and conditions may require additional caution or equipment.
Contact
If you have any questions, please email frassati@uwnewman.org.