Mount McCausland
Central CascadesBest Jun–Oct
A quick 1,800-foot climb to summit views and huckleberries, with Lake Valhalla as the bonus round.
About This Trail
Mount McCausland delivers one of the best effort-to-reward ratios near Stevens Pass. The 7-mile round trip starts from Smithbrook Road and climbs 1,800 feet through three distinct zones: a forested lower section with switchbacks and giant boulders, a flat stretch along the Pacific Crest Trail lined with huckleberries, and a steep final half-mile push to the 5,747-foot summit. That last section is brushy and loose underfoot, with big steps that demand hands-on scrambling in spots. The payoff is a full panorama of the surrounding peaks and Lake Valhalla sitting in its basin just below.
Lake Valhalla is only half a mile from the summit junction, making it easy to add a lakeside rest or swim to the trip. The trail sees steady traffic, and the small parking lot (about 20 cars) fills on weekday afternoons in peak season. The hike works well as a half-day outing from Seattle.
Berry picking in late summer and fall color in October make shoulder seasons especially rewarding. Snow and mud arrive by late October and the upper mountain becomes a winter objective for snowshoers.
Seasonal Highlights
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
October 2025 reports describe intermittent snow on the PCT section with mud, water, ice, and slush in the upper areas. Trail is manageable with traction but conditions change quickly in fall. Summer conditions are generally excellent with well-maintained lower trail.
“Smithbrook Road had 3 feet of snow at Highway 2 so we parked at the lot on the highway.”
Last report: May 22, 2026
Scorecard
Lot fills by early afternoon even on weekdays in summer and fall. Weekends can be very busy. Quieter after first snow.
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended; water reflection adds glare near the lake
Persistent Hazards
- Final half-mile is steep with loose surface and big steps
- Brushy summit approach can be disorienting in low visibility
Getting There
Small lot fits about 20 cars off Smithbrook Road (FR 6700), roughly 4 miles east of Stevens Pass. No restroom. Roadside overflow parking limited.
From Stevens Pass, head east on US 2 and turn left onto Smithbrook Road (FR 6700). Drive about 4 miles to the trailhead. The trail climbs through forest, joins the PCT at 1.5 miles, then a spur trail leads to the summit.
Start early on weekends to secure parking. An afternoon start works well on weekdays. The hike takes most people 3-4 hours including Lake Valhalla.
Recent Reports
The access road had several downed trees and ravines difficult even for off road vehicles. Eventually the trees made it impossible to pass so I re-routed and went in from the PCT at Steven’s Pass.
Smithbrook Road had 3 feet of snow at Highway 2 so we parked at the lot on the highway. We started up at 08:15, used microspikes on the road on ascent for slightly better traction on mostly firm/frozen snow.
I did a morning hike up to Mount McCausland and Lake Valhalla and got the variety pack of fall trail conditions: water, mud, snow, ice and slush. Right now this hike is a good warm up for winter hiking.
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