Mount McCausland

getting there

Drive SR-2 to the Smithbrook Road turn off and parking area, 4.2 miles east of Stevens Pass. If coming from the east, drive Stevens Pass Nordic Center and use the U-turn access for SR-2 westbound to the parking area (3,200 ft). In summer, continue 2.8 miles on Smith Brook Road (Forest Road 6700) to the trailhead (3,950 ft).

Day hiking

7.0 miles round trip, 1,800 feet of elevation gain

snowshoe/scramble route

9.0 miles round trip, 2,800 feet of elevation gain

Travel up Smith Brook Road to the Smithbrook Trailhead (6,000 ft).  Turn off the road and head cross-country, choosing a route to the saddle above Lake Valhalla.

ski route

See the "Resources" tab below for a map, elevation profile, and trip segments for the best ski routes.

notes

• Mount McCausland (not labeled on the USGS topo map) is the 5,747 ft peak located immediately north of Lake Valhalla.
• In winter, not permit is required. In summer a Northwest Forest Pass is required.

Information for LEADERS

scheduling

Many popular snowshoe and ski routes utilize Smith Brook Road parking area where this route begins. Review these other routes to be sure your trip will not conflict with others and encourage carpooling within your group.  

• Lake Valhalla
• Lichtenberg Mountain
• Lichtenwasser Lake
• Smithbrook Area
• Union & Jove Peaks

• Suitable Activities: Backcountry Skiing, Day Hiking, Snowshoeing
• Snowshoeing Category: Intermediate
• Seasons: Year-round
• Weather: View weather forecast
• View avalanche forecast.

• Difficulty: Moderate/Strenuous, Moderate, M1 Intremediate Ski
• Length: 8.0 mi
• Elevation Gain: 2,700 ft
• High Point: 5,747 ft

• Land Manager: Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forests
  Henry M Jackson Wilderness, Skykomish Ranger District (MBSNF)
• Parking Permit Required: Northwest Forest Pass
• Recommended Party Size: 12
• Maximum Party Size: 12
• Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12