Near Kendall Katwalk
Stunning view of Rainier at sunset. Bring headlamps!
Near Kendall Katwalk
A few rock cairns along the way. Red mountain in the background.
Near Kendall Katwalk
Kitty kitty katwalk - twlight
Near Kendall Katwalk
Snow among the scree.
Near Kendall Katwalk
Deep snow in May. Hiking for twlight hour.

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Driving Directions
Classic Hike Route

Kendall Katwalk

4.7 (41 Ratings)
One of the 100 Classic routes in Washington!
12.3
mi
Distance
3,769
ft
Gain
strenuous
Difficulty
Regional Classic
A must do route for the area handpicked by local experts.
BirdingRiver/CreekViewsWaterfallWildflowersWildlife
Access Issues
The top of this trail can remain snowy well into June or July, making the Katwalk portion treacherous.

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
12.25mi
Distance
3,769ft
Elevation Gain
3,769ft
Elevation Loss
65%
Max Grade
5,476ft
High Point
3,014ft
Low Point
Path Type
There and Back
Description
Leaving the parking lot, you'll instantly be aware that you are on a part of the PCT with medallions, who knows how old, on scattered trees. A wide pathway may have trees down, blown over by a recent wind storm - check trip reports if you are concerned with trail conditions. Pass a waterfall relatively early on and then two creek crossings shortly thereafter, varying in depth depending on recent rainfall. Switchbacks will take you through the old growth forest until you find yourself above the treeline with Red Mountain in front of you and Rainier to your back. Continue through the scree fields (obvious trail in the middle), and use the rock to your right for balance along this steep slope, dip into the trees briefly and continue on another half a mile to the katwalk proper with vertical cliffs on your left and right for the classic katwalk views into the backcountry.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
No Condition Reports
Report Conditions

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Contributors
Jackie Clark