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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

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.

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.

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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