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CHS 1 Hike - Mount Townsend

Field trip: Conditioning Hiking Series

CHS 1 Hike - Mount Townsend

CHS1 hike led at pace 1.5-2.0 mph. Mt. Townsend's trail is a steep climb that features rhododendrons in spring, old growth, and a summit with stunning views. On a clear day, you can see the San Juan Islands and peer into to the heart of the Olympic Mountains.

Contacts

Heidi Walker
Heidi Walker
Primary Leader
  • Strenuous
  • Challenging
  • Mileage: 8.0 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 3,000 ft
  • Pace: 1.5-2.0 mph

With how popular this trail can be, I want to be in the parking lot early hence the early time.  The 6:10 ferry from Edmonds to Kingston will get us at the ranger station with extra minutes to use the restroom. The 6:10 ferry from Seattle to Bainbridge Island will be pushing the 7:45 leave time. Arrange carpools on your own to ride the ferry but we can also leave cars at the ranger station.

We will be meeting at the Quilcene Ranger Station  at 7:30 am. This means that anyone on the east side of Puget Sound will need to catch the 6:10 ferry out of Edmonds. I want to be on the road to the trailhead by 7:45. The parking area is small and this is a popular trail so fills up fast.

Route/Place

Mount Townsend


  • USGS Mt Townsend
    Green Trails Olympic Mountains East No. 168S
    Custom Correct Buckhorn Wilderness
  • See full route/place details.
Roster
Required Equipment

Required Equipment

Ten Essential Systems

  1. Navigation (map & compass)
  2. Sun protection (sunglasses & sunscreen)
  3. Insulation (extra clothing)
  4. Illumination (headlamp/flashlight)
  5. First-aid supplies
  6. Fire (waterproof matches/lighter/candle)
  7. Repair kit and tools
  8. Nutrition (extra food)
  9. Hydration (extra water)
  10. Emergency shelter (tent/plastic tube tent/garbage bag)
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