Mileage Mike went hiking October 19, 2013 9.3 miles 1,750 feet gained

Wahtum Lake to Chinidere Mt. (twice) and Herman Creek Trail

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What a beautiful, spectacular and clear day! We had never been to Chinidere Mt., and today was an amazing time to visit. We got up there, and immediately noticed a couple of things; we could see 5 snow covered volcanoes very clearly (St. Helens, Rainier, Adams, Hood and Jefferson!), and it was very crowded. I tried to take some movies, but there was a loud and rude group that made it unpleasant. So we left and headed down the Herman Creek Trail, but stopped short of the Mud Lake Cutoff trail. We then headed back to Chinidere, and had the summit to ourselves!!! After taking movies and pictures, again, we went back to the TH and headed home. My wife and I agreed that Chinidere Mt. is perhaps the best 360 degreee view we have ever seen in this area!

Trail Talk

JM · October 21, 2013

I didnt realize you could get there from Wahtum Lake TH. I once attempted it from Herman Creek, but only got as far as Mud Lake before I ran out of daylight. I'll have to take the "easy" way next time! :)

Mileage Mike · October 22, 2013

Yeah, Chinidere is about 2.5 miles from the parking area at Wahtum Lake. The cutoff to Chinidere is just past the Whatum Lake cutoff (on the left while heading north on the PCT). You had about another 2 miles from the Mud Lake Cutoff until you hit Chinidere. If you have the chance, this next or possibly following weekend would be a great time to visit? Definitely visit this summit on a sunny (and low smog) day. Take care and I hope your future visit is great!

JM · October 23, 2013

Thanks Mike!