Rocky Top and Cowiche Mountain

Rocky Top accesses the same Cowiche Mountain summit as Snow Mountain Ranch but from the southeast side, through a mountain bike trail network of 25 interconnected paths across open shrub-steppe. The Walk N Roll trail and William O. Douglas Trail lead hikers through basalt-studded hillsides and old-growth sagebrush to the 2,970-foot summit, where Adams and Rainier anchor the western skyline.

The full network spans about 20 miles, offering countless loop combinations. The terrain is rocky and exposed throughout, living up to the trail's name. Spring wildflowers carpet the hillsides and draw the biggest crowds, but the lack of shade and water means summer visits require serious heat planning. The land is jointly managed by the Single Track Alliance, Cowiche Canyon Conservancy, and William O. Douglas Trail Foundation, with trails crossing private property.

Be aware that many spur trails have been permanently closed, and blasting activity from nearby operations occasionally forces temporary closures. The conservancy also shuts things down during muddy early-spring conditions. Always check current status before heading out. For hikers who want a through-route, a car shuttle between Rocky Top and Snow Mountain Ranch trailheads makes a solid 7-mile traverse over the summit.