This moderate trail traverses a ridgeline up and down all the way to Maiden Peak. After driving the winding Obstruction Point Road, you'll start this great hike from the Obstruction Point trailhead.
Take the Badger Valley trail to the east for a short time rounding Elk Mountain but make sure you don't descend into the valley. Instead, keep going along the ridgeline. The trail rises slowly, revealing amazing views of Mount Olympus and others to the south. You can also see Moose Lake and Grand Lake across the valley.
Proceed on this ridge past the trail sign that points to Deer Park. In the summer, marmots are out in plenty along with chipmunks, as ar ptarmigans. After passing through Roaring Winds camp, the trail descends through a talus field for a bit and then arrive back on good old dirt. You will be able to see Maiden Peak at various points on the trail.
Upon arriving at Maiden Peak, be sure to take a rest and enjoy the fantastic 360-degree views. Marvel at how relatively easily attained these views were.
Elk Mountain to Maiden Peak
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Length
- 8.0 miles, roundtrip
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Elevation Gain
- 840 feet
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Highest Point
- 6,625 feet
Hiking Elk Mountain to Maiden Peak
Elk Mountain to Maiden Peak