Day Hike - Mount Defiance

Issaquah Transit Center at 6:30am.

Mason Lake is now melted out and the flowers are blooming on Defiance itself, so this is a good time to go. The trailhead is very popular so we'll get an early start to avoid the crowds and the worst of late afternoon heat (if it turns out to be a warm day).

In addition to the usual summit lunch we'll also stop at Mason Lake on both the way in and out to have a snack and pump water. In addition to being approximately half way, it's just too pretty to pass by without pausing.

Even though we will go at a moderate pace and will stop now and then to enjoy the views and to (literally) smell the flowers, the distance and elevation gain make this a strenuous route so please be in good condition. To be adequately prepared for the 3600' gain of this trip you should have been doing regular trips of at least 2500' - 3000' during the last month or so. With stops we will probably be on the trail around 8 - 9 hours (very approximate), so plan your food and other gear accordingly.

Portions of this trail are steep. Hiking poles are recommended, especially for the descent.

The forest service road that leads to the trailhead is rough. If you have a high clearance vehicle please consider driving. A Northwest Forest Pass (or equivalent) is required at the trailhead.