Dirty Harry's Peak
Overview
Recent trail work in the summer of 2018 makes this peak a great close-to-Seattle day hike in a few hours and a good alternative hike to Mount Si.
This is a difficult out and back trail to Dirty Harry's Peak in Middle Fork Snoqualmie Natural Resources Conservation Area.
The trailhead is off I-90 at exit 38. Follow the access road east and go back under I-90 to the parking area. Discovery Pass is required.
Getting Started
Share the trailhead and beginning of trail with rock climbers looking for a day of cragging.
This trail goes by The Grit Scone, Overhaul, Truck Town, Truck Town Cave, Sun Vista Slab, The Cirque, Interstate Park, Dirty Harry's Rest Stop, Headlight Point, Squishy Bell, Eastern Block, Winter Block, and Dirty Harry's Balcony.
After passing the popular climbing turn-offs, follow the signs along the trail. Pass a short junction off the right for the Little Balcony. From the balcony, the trail starts to climb steeper up an old mining road. Hang in there as you'll be rewarded with views of Mount Rainier and Mount Baker. At the summit you look down the north side to Granite Lakes. If you go further along the ridge (back west towards Seattle) you'll come to an opening with great views south including Mt Rainier. Also about 1/2 up from the balcony is Dirty Harry's creek and just before the creek is a rough trail in about 1/4 mile to "the museum" where Dirty Harry's old logging truck is still parked. Dirty Harry (Harry Gault) was a logger known for going to more difficult areas to cut down trees. Before the new trail work one would meet less than 6 people on the upper portion of the trail. It has become more popular but is still a good destination for smaller crowds close to Seattle. The balcony is a good shorter option for people with an overlook of I-90 and McClellan's Butte.
The trailhead is off I-90 at exit 38. Follow the access road east and go back under I-90 to the parking area. There is a pit toilet at the parking area.
A Discover Pass is required to park at the trailhead. You can purchase a day-use pass at the parking lot or consider buying an annual permit.
Taking Children
The hike includes steep terrain and cliff areas that could be dangerous for children.
Sights to See
Rate this Hike
★★★★★