Hall Mountain
Eastern WashingtonBest Jul–Sep
A relentless climb through eastern forests to wildflower meadows and Selkirk panoramas on a former lookout peak.
About This Trail
Hall Mountain is a long, grinding climb through several distinct forest zones to the alpine meadows and panoramic summit of a former fire lookout peak in the Selkirk Mountains. From the Noisy Creek Campground trailhead at the south end of Sullivan Lake, the trail follows the creek through mixed aspen and paper birch for the first couple of miles before beginning its relentless uphill push.
The route climbs through lodgepole pine and eventually breaks into open meadows filled with lupine, Indian paintbrush, aster, and fireweed. The last few miles above treeline are the reward: bighorn sheep territory on the steep grassy slopes, with views stretching across Sullivan Lake to Abercrombie Mountain, the Hooknose Mountains, Crowell Ridge, Shedroof Divide, and the Idaho Selkirks. The 1930-era lookout is long gone, but the concrete foundation remains at the summit.
Water is available from Noisy Creek for the first couple miles, but nothing reliable after about mile 3.5, so carry plenty. The creek crossing at mile 2 is a rock hop in late season but can be tricky during spring runoff. An alternate, shorter approach exists via John's Creek Road (FS Road 2200500), cutting the hike to roughly 5 miles round trip, though the road itself requires high clearance. Recent trip reports note significant blowdown around mile 4.5 from Noisy Creek, so check conditions before heading out.
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
Scorecard
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended
Persistent Hazards
- No water after mile 3.5 from Noisy Creek trailhead
- Noisy Creek crossing difficult during spring runoff
- Blowdown periodically blocks trail around mile 4-5
- Exposed summit in lightning-prone terrain
- Bighorn sheep territory - maintain distance
Getting There
Primary trailhead at Noisy Creek Campground at Sullivan Lake's south end. No fee or pass required. No restroom at trailhead. Alternate shorter approach via John's Creek Road (FS Rd 2200500) requires high clearance.
From Noisy Creek Campground, follow the trail along the creek for 2 miles to the crossing, then climb steadily through forest zones into alpine meadows. The final miles are steep and open. Alternate approach via John's Creek Road shortens the hike to roughly 5 miles round trip.
Start early. The full out-and-back from Noisy Creek is a long day. Morning departure avoids afternoon thunderstorms above treeline and gives the best light on the summit views.
Similar Hikes
