Union Peak
Central CascadesBest Jan–Mar, Jun–Oct
A steep bushwhack to a 5,696-foot summit plateau near Stevens Pass with panoramic views and serious winter avalanche exposure.
About This Trail
Union Peak rises to 5,696 feet above the Smithbrook trailhead near Stevens Pass, delivering a demanding scramble with expansive views from a small summit plateau. The route follows the trail for about a mile to the Pacific Crest Trail junction, then turns right and immediately left to begin a steep bushwhack on a faint climbers' trail toward the summit. The plateau on top is surprisingly gentle, with panoramic views of the surrounding Stevens Pass peaks including neighboring Jove Peak.
Union Peak is popular as a winter objective, drawing snowshoers and ski tourers, but all sides of the mountain are avalanche-prone, making careful assessment of conditions essential. Winter ascents are serious undertakings, with trip reports describing it as one of the hardest winter climbs in the area due to sustained steep slopes and variable snow conditions. Summer attempts involve brushy routefinding above treeline. The trailhead sits off Smithbrook Road 6700, 2.7 miles from Highway 2, and has no facilities. Hikers often combine Union with Jove Peak for a longer day.
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
Scorecard
Winter weekends see moderate traffic from snowshoers and ski tourers. Summer is quieter since the route requires bushwhacking.
Safety & Considerations
Persistent Hazards
- All sides of the mountain are avalanche-prone in winter
- Steep slopes with variable snow conditions
- Brushy routefinding required above treeline in summer
- No formal trail to summit
Getting There
Smithbrook trailhead off Smithbrook Road 6700, 2.7 miles from Highway 2. No facilities. Road conditions can be challenging in winter.
Follow the trail one mile to the PCT junction. Turn right on PCT then immediately left to begin the climbers' trail. Faint tread requires routefinding above treeline.
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