Beckler Peak Trail

Beckler Peak is located in the southeastern region of Washington's Wild Sky Wilderness of Washington. The peak was named for Elberdge H. Beckler, a railroad engineer who worked on the Great Northern Railways in the 1880s as work was underway to extend the Milwaukee Railroad. Beckler Peak was also home to a fire lookout that sat at 4,950 feet and overlooked the town of Skykomish, just below the western summit, though this lookout destroyed in 1958. With a handful of highpoints, there is some dispute over the location of Beckler Peak's true summit, but it is safe to say that they all are nearly comparable in elevation, and stunning views can be enjoyed from any point at the top.

The start of the hike follows an old logging road for about 1.5 miles to the trail junction in an old-growth forest. Views may be limited for the first 2 miles, but vantage points of Skykomish Valley appear as you reach a log landing at 3,700 feet. Continue on as the trail passes through old-growth silver fir, and you will quickly gain elevation on several broad switchbacks with views to the north. The last 2 miles will challenge you with steep switchbacks, but the reward is much bigger as views open to the south and you gain small glimpses of West Beckler Peak.  

Just bellow the summit, rock steps lead to Middle Peak. This is a great place to explore, but continue to climb for the 360-views of the area's jagged peaks. It is well worth scrambling up rocks and narrow steep switchback to see views of Mount Baring, Eagle Rock, Monte Cristo Peak, and Glacier Peak to the northeast. On a clear day, you may be able to find Mount Rainer to the south. From the edge of the summit, the view west to West Beckler Peak and Mount Index is stunning. As you begin your descent, be sure to enjoy the views for the first few switchbacks before entering the forest.

Though Beckler Peak is challenging at times, it is a rewarding and moderate 7.4-mile hike that is also popular with mountain bikers and rock climbers. It is best to visit Beckler Peak on a week day due to high traffic.Note that, for the drive in, NF-66 starts off paved and well maintained but becomes a little rough before reaching the trailhead.