This past weekend, Will and I chose to escape to Mt. Adams. The biggest question was deciding which hike to choose during our short escape and we ultimately decided on the Sleeping Beauty Mountain Hike.
Sleeping Beauty Mountain came highly recommended and we decided to commit! And holy cow, let me tell you – this hike is easily the most underrated hike in Washington.
Elevation is the name of the game here folks – but the view from the top is well worth the effort, believe me.
Sleeping Beauty Mountain Hike
- Distance: 3 miles out and back
- Elevation gain: 1,400′
- Estimated hiking time: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Type of hike: difficult
- Best time to visit: June through October
- Permits: Northwest Forest Pass required ($5 day pass or $30 annual)
How to Get to Sleeping Beauty Trailhead
The trailhead is located about 6 miles north of Trout Lake, Washington. From Trout Lake, head north on County Road 88 (also called the Trout Lake Creek Road). After about 3 miles, turn right onto Forest Road 8810. Follow it for roughly 3 miles until you reach a fork, then bear left onto Forest Road 011. The trailhead is about a quarter mile down this road.
Fair warning, the last stretch of road is unpaved and can be potholed depending on when it was last graded. A standard car can make it if you take it slow, but you’ll feel more comfortable in something with higher clearance. There’s space for maybe 8-10 cars at the trailhead, and on summer weekends it fills up fast. We arrived by 8 AM on a Saturday and snagged one of the last spots.
There are no restrooms at the trailhead, so plan accordingly. The nearest pit toilet is back in Trout Lake.
What’s in a name?
Sleeping Beauty Mountain got its name because the rock outcrop looks like a sleeping woman (chest to the sky) from the town of Trout Lake.
Hiking Tips for Sleeping Beauty Trail
Practice Leave No Trace
- If you’re unfamiliar with Leave No Trace, it’s a measure to be a good steward of the land. You can read about the seven principals of Leave No Trace here.
You + Sunscreen = Best Friends (Forever)
- I swear by this sunscreen, I discovered it in France and now buy it in bulk. You’ll never catch me without it!
Wear hiking boots with good traction
- Even though the trails are well maintained, exposed roots are common. It’s easy to trip in the woods, so set yourself up for success by wearing proper shoes.
- These are my hiking boots, and I’d sleep in them if I could.
Hiking with pups
- Dogs are allowed on trails, but must be kept on leash.
Sleeping Beauty Mountain Hike Overview
The Sleeping Beauty Mountain Trail starts off steeply from the get go. This gal won’t deceive you, elevation gain is the name of the game. The hike is uphill all the way to the ridge line of the summit.
The trail is stunning, it leads you through an impressive dense forest of towering trees. I suggest taking in the views by adopting an easy pace on your way up. What’s the rush?
The first half mile climbs through thick Douglas fir and hemlock forest. The canopy blocks most of the sun, which keeps things cool even on warm days. You’ll gain elevation quickly here, switchbacking up the mountainside. Don’t be discouraged by how steep it feels right out of the gate. It does ease up slightly in the middle section.
We took a break 3/4 of the way to the top and I’m glad we did because those 10 minutes of calm made it easy to enjoy the scenery.
After your break, continue your way up until you’ll notice the forest starts to thin. This is a good sign because it means you’re nearing the summit.
As the terrain becomes less soil and more rock, you’ve made it to the ridge line! Allow your heart rate to slow down while you absorb the unbelievable view of Mt. Adams. And trust me – it’s even better at the top!
Once you’ve had your fill, continue up the steep rocky switchback to reach the summit of Sleeping Beauty.
I know it’s hard to believe that Mt. Adams could look better than it did from the ridge line but lo’ and behold – here she is in all her unadulterated glory!
What’s more, all the Cascade mountains will be vying for your attention. Look around and you will see Mt. Hood, Mt. St. Helens and Mt. Rainier.
Have a snack, or ten, and soak in the view – you earned it! The hike isn’t easy, but the reward at the top is a no brainer.
After you get your fill of the summit, feel free to head down. The way down is way easier than the way up, so take your time and enjoy the view!
We hope you enjoy hiking the Sleeping Beauty trail at Mt. Adams.
Sleeping Beauty Mountain Fire Lookout
You may notice concrete blocks at the summit of Sleeping Beauty. This used to be the Sleeping Beauty Fire Lookout which has since been removed. Don’t believe me? You’re smarter than you look.
The lookout was built in the 1930s and served the Forest Service for decades before it was dismantled. All that remains are the anchor bolts in the rock. It’s a cool little piece of history that most hikers walk right past without noticing.
One thing that surprised me about this hike is how quiet it is compared to trails in the national parks. We passed maybe four other groups the entire time. If you are used to the crowds at Mt. Rainier or Mt. Hood, Sleeping Beauty will feel like your own private mountain.
The best time to hike Sleeping Beauty is early summer through early fall. The trail can hold snow well into June some years, and by late October the road conditions start to get dicey. We went in late July and the wildflowers along the lower portion of the trail were in full bloom. Nothing like what you see at Mt. Rainier during wildflower season, but still a nice bonus.
If you are looking for a place to eat after the hike, the town of Trout Lake has a few options. We grabbed burgers at Trout Lake Grocery and they hit the spot after a sweaty climb. The town is tiny but charming and worth a quick stop.
What to Bring on the Sleeping Beauty Hike
Since the hike is short but steep, you don’t need to go overboard on gear. But here’s what I always bring.
- At least 1 liter of water (more on hot days)
- Snacks for the summit
- Sunscreen and a hat (the summit is fully exposed)
- A windbreaker or light jacket for the top
- Trekking poles if you have bad knees (the descent is steep)
- Bug spray in summer months
Like hiking?
Us too. The party doesn’t have to stop here – check out the posts below.
- 13 Best Hikes at Mt. Rainier National Park
- 10 Things to Do at Mt. Rainier National Park
- 8 Best Hikes in Redwood National Park
- 17+ Things to do in Death Valley National Park
Until next time,
Antonina
I’m happy to have this trail just down the road from me!
Beautiful photography. What camera system do you guys use?