Instead of Barclay Lake Trail, the old hermit's trail that runs parallel to and SW of Eagle Creek is a much easier approach. To reach the 'trail head' of this unofficial trail turn left onto the Beckler River Road just east of Skykomish. Turn left onto NF-6510, followed by a left onto NF-6514. Continue for quite a ways and just before starting the descent to the bridge that crosses Eagle Creek take a left fork at ~3350' and continue to the next hairpin turn which is the 'trail head' at ~3400'. Follow the well-maintained trail about 2 miles and take a turn-off into the meadows SE of Eagle Lake. At Eagle Lake there is a good campsite at the outlet, and the old hermit's cabin is open to public use. To avoid lower bands of brush when ascending from Eagle Lake continue part way up NE side of lake and then begin an obvious rising right traverse in a ENE direction to reach the col just west of the summit. Follow the ridge up an easy scramble to the summit. Note that there is no climber's path up from Eagle Lake, and the route is not recommended until avalanche danger is past.

Townsend Mountain, 5936' (3-3) (USGS Baring) 10 mi., 3800' gain. Moderate Pace. Meet at the Baring General Store by 7 a.m. Leader: Mike Sweeney. E-mail: mmsween@frontier.com. Cell: 425.417.3081.