Granite Mountain (Conconully)
Eastern WashingtonBest Jun–Oct
A relentless climb through burned forest and granite domes to a disorienting summit scattered with balanced rocks and Okanogan views.
About This Trail
Granite Mountain near Conconully is one of the bigger efforts in the Okanogan Highlands, gaining nearly 1,100 meters over 14.5 kilometers round trip. The trail climbs through a patchwork of fire-scarred slopes from the 2006 Tripod Fire and surviving ponderosa forest, with steep switchbacks winding through granite domes and bulges that give the mountain its name.
The summit zone is otherworldly. Silvery burnt snags stand among granite boulders and balanced rocks, with views stretching across the Okanogan country. It is also easy to get turned around up top. The terrain flattens out and the trail becomes indistinct among the rock, so track your route carefully and do not rely on following a beaten path back down.
The trail sees very little traffic, and the trailhead access road requires some attention. From Conconully, follow FS roads south around the reservoir. The large grassy pullout at the trailhead works for car camping if you want an early start. No pass required, no facilities. Snow can linger through mid-June. Expect the trail to be moderately overgrown in sections, particularly where the burn opened the canopy and brush has filled in.
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
Scorecard
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended
Persistent Hazards
- disorienting summit terrain with indistinct trail
- no water sources on trail
- overgrown sections through burn recovery
- extreme summer heat in Okanogan
Getting There
Large grassy pullout at the trailhead. No fee, no pass, no facilities. Suitable for car camping.
From Conconully, head south around the reservoir on FS 2017 (about 3 miles), right onto FS 37 (1 mile), left onto FS 37-100 (4 miles past dispersed campsites), then right onto FS 37-120. Trailhead on the right in 100 yards. Roads are dirt but passable for most vehicles.
Start early. This is a long, steep day with minimal shade in the burn zones. Carry plenty of water as there are no reliable sources on the trail. Summer heat in the Okanogan is no joke.
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