Benchmark Mountain via West Cady Ridge
A very strenuous hike of nearly 15 miles and 3,700 feet of elevation gain. The effort is well worth it for the spectacular alpine meadows and views of the Wild Sky Wilderness and Henry M. Jackson Wilderness.
getting there
From SR-2, 1 mile past Skykomish, turn left onto Beckler River Road, Forest Road 65. Drive 15 miles, the last 8 miles of it unpaved. Just after crossing the North Fork Skykomish River, turn left on Forest Road 63 and continue 4.3 miles to the West Cady Ridge trailhead.
on the trail
Hike the West Cady Ridge trail from the parking lot as far as desired. It's 7.2 miles and 3,700 feet of elevation gain to the summit of Benchmark Mountain.
notes
- Enjoy huckleberries when they are in season!
- Be wary of bears that roam the area!
- The length of this trip makes is a great backpack too.
- Extend and enhance your trip by making a 17-mile loop that includes the Pacific Crest Trail, Pass Creek Trail and the North Forth Skokomish River Trail.
- Suitable Activities: Day Hiking
- Seasons: July, August, September, October
- Weather: View weather forecast
- Difficulty: Very Strenuous
- Length: 14.4 mi
- Elevation Gain: 3,700 ft
- 5,816 ft
-
Land Manager:
Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest
Wild Sky Wilderness, Skykomish Ranger District (MBSNF)
- Parking Permit Required: Northwest Forest Pass
- Recommended Party Size: 12
- Maximum Party Size: 12
- Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12
- Green Trails Monte Cristo No. 143
- Green Trails Benchmark Mtn No. 144
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| USGS Map of West Cady Ridge A scanned section of the USGS Benckmark Mountain 7.5-min map showing West Cady Ridge. Submitted by Lawrence Landauer. |