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This demanding run supplies spectacular views in abundance.


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Map Key

5.8

Miles

9.3

KM

58%

Runnable

5,883' 1,793 m

High

1,848' 563 m

Low

4,426' 1,349 m

Up

392' 119 m

Down

16%

Avg Grade (9°)

48%

Max Grade (25°)

Dogs No Dogs

Features Fall Colors · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Often snowy into late July.

Runner Notes

Considerable runoff and snowfield crossings. Loose rocks and difficult footing.

Description

From the west end of the Heart of the Hills Campground parking lot, head steadily uphill through some uniformly dense forest. Enter a relentless series of wide switchbacks through relatively unexciting stands of Douglas fir. Pass by "Halfway Rock" on the left or southern side of the trail. It is notable because it was dropped by a retreating glacier, not because it accurately measures the halfway point en route to Heather Park!

Continue steeply up the hillside eventually contouring around the southeastern side of First Top. Here the forest becomes sparser and the views greatly improve. An arduous set of sharp switchbacks deposits you at the ridge just north of Heather Park camp. The camp is situated in lovely meadows below rugged Second Top. Many folks think the views from First Top surpass the views from Second Top.

Continue southwards, just to the west below the crest over more moderate terrain. Cross over the ridge at a saddle and head down a number of steep switchbacks. Now on the eastern side of Mount Angeles, cross through a snowy cirque and climb the last steep pitch to the ridge. The Heather Park trail ends here at the junction between the Klahhane Ridge Trail to the east and the Switchback Trail to the west.

Flora & Fauna

Deer, marmot, mountain lions, black bears.

Contacts

Shared By:

Megan W

Trail Ratings

  3.8 from 5 votes

#23253

Overall
  3.8 from 5 votes
5 Star
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4 Star
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2 Star
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1 Star
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Trail Rankings

#1,062

in Washington

#23,253

Overall
4 Views Last Month
1,332 Since Apr 29, 2015
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Photos

Ennis Creek drainage.
Jun 10, 2023 near Port An…, WA
A precipitous section of the trail.
Jun 10, 2023 near Port An…, WA
View from the pass south of Second Top.
Jun 10, 2023 near Port An…, WA
Helpful sign!
May 3, 2015 near Port An…, WA
A glimpse through the trees on the ascent to Heather Park.
Jun 10, 2023 near Port An…, WA

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