Beckler Peak
Central CascadesBest Jun–Oct
Old-growth forest and a cliff-edge summit with front-row views of the Monte Cristo peaks, all within spitting distance of Highway 2.
About This Trail
Beckler Peak packs a lot into a moderate day. The first 3 km follow a decommissioned logging road at an easy grade, opening to views at an old landing. Past that point, honest singletrack enters old-growth forest with silver fir, Douglas-fir, mountain hemlock, western red cedar, and Alaska yellow cedar. Switchbacks through alpine blueberry and granite outcroppings lead to a summit that drops away sharply on the north side.
The view from the top is worth the work. Glacier Peak, Baring, Index, the full Monte Cristo Range, and Evergreen Mountain's lookout all line up in front of you. The trail itself is well-built and well-maintained, one of the better newer trails in the Skykomish area. Families with older kids will find it manageable. Blueberry season on the upper switchbacks is a nice bonus in late summer.
Two things to know: there is no water on this trail, so bring everything you need. And the northern summit edge is a genuine cliff with no railing or barrier. Keep dogs leashed and kids close at the top.
Note: As of late December 2025, the trail is closed due to flood damage on FR 6066. Recent trip reports confirm a large tree blocking the road about 3 miles up with no way around. Check road conditions before planning a visit.
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
“There is contractor work in the area and I passed several work vehicles shortly after turning onto Forest Road NF-66 from US Highway 2.”
Last report: Apr 15, 2026
Scorecard
Safety & Considerations
Persistent Hazards
- sheer cliff on north summit edge with no barrier
- no water on trail
- FR 6066 flood damage and road closures (check current status)
- blowdowns reported on access road
Getting There
Trailhead is 6.6 miles up FR 6066 off Highway 2, about 1.9 miles past the Skykomish ranger station. Gravel road is passable for sedans when dry. Toilet at the trailhead. No pass required. Cell service is unreliable past the highway, so save directions before you leave.
The first 3 km share a decommissioned logging road. After the old landing with its first viewpoint, true singletrack begins and switchbacks through old-growth to the summit. Route-finding is straightforward on a well-maintained trail.
Most people can do this in 4 to 5 hours round trip. A morning start avoids afternoon heat on the exposed upper section. The trailhead road takes 15 to 20 minutes from Highway 2.
Recent Reports
There is contractor work in the area and I passed several work vehicles shortly after turning onto Forest Road NF-66 from US Highway 2. The road was very soft in many places (especially near the edges of the turns, as indicated by the WTA guide) with a few deeply-rutted or heavily pot-holed areas.
Once you turn off Highway 2 about 3 miles up there is a large tree covering the entire roadway with no way around.
Forest Road 6066号線は甚大な被害を受けています。損傷した道路を通過するには、徒歩かオフロードバイクで進むしかありません。倒木も多数あります。 登山口まで歩くと、約11キロもの長い道のりになります。私は道路の半分ほどを歩きましたが、日没が迫っていたため引き返しました。 どうしても全行程を歩き通したいという強い意志がない限り、このトレイルは通行不可能だと考えてください。 道路に倒木がいくつかあります。あたしはそのうちの1本はグラップリングフックを使って取り除きました。しかし、まだ取り除いていない倒木が他にもあります。 Short English Version: -Forest Road 6066 heavy damage. Only walking or off-road motorcycle can traverse it.
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