Sperry Peak is a semi-technical scramble with some exposure. The majority of the route is on the Sunrise Mine Trail, which accesses Lake Elan and Vesper Peak. From the trailhead, the trail ascends through forest gradually to Wirtz Basin, which is more rocky and open. Hikers trend upward until the end of the basin is reached. From here the trail ascends a steep chute via many tight switchbacks to arrive at Headlee Pass. On the other side of the pass, the trail traverses around the base of Sperry to arrive at the lake. To the west is Vesper Peak, to the east is Sperry.
From here on, the route is not an official trail, but rather a scramble. The standard route to the summit of Sperry leaves the official trail at the outlet of the lake, following its eastern shore, then climbing up the welcoming slopes to the notch between Vesper and Sperry Peaks. From here climbers follow the ridge upwards, generally east to the summit. This route involves route finding and some exposure and should only be attempted by those with the adequate skill, experience and equipment.
Sperry Peak
48.0250,
-121.4779
Map & Directions
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Length
- 6.4 miles, roundtrip
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Elevation Gain
- 3,800 feet
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Highest Point
- 6,120 feet
Mountain Loop Highway is closed from Deer Creek (milepost 24) to Bedal Creek (milepost 36) for the winter.
Scramble to the top of this peak from Headlee Pass, located off the Mountain Loop Highway.
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Hiking Sperry Peak
Map & Directions
Trailhead
Before You Go
Mountain Loop Highway is closed from Deer Creek (milepost 24) to Bedal Creek (milepost 36) for the winter.
Parking Pass/Entry Fee
Northwest Forest PassWTA Pro Tip: Save a copy of our directions before you leave! App-based driving directions aren't always accurate and data connections may be unreliable as you drive to the trailhead.
Getting There
From I-5, take exit 194 for Highway 2 towards Snohomish/Wenatchee. Drive for nearly 2 miles, then take the left exit for WA-204 E towards Lake Stevens for 2.5 miles. Turn left onto WA-9 N and drive for 1.7 miles, then turn right onto WA-92 E. After 1.5 miles on this road, arrive at a traffic circle and take the second exit to stay on WA-92 E.
After nearly 6 miles, arrive at a second traffic circle and take the second exit onto Quarry Road. Proceed through two more traffic circles, always staying on Quarry Road, before arriving at an intersection, where you will turn left onto the Mountain Loop Highway (Hwy 530). Drive for 27.5 miles and then make a right onto Forest Road 4065. Drive about 2.5 miles to the end of this road to the trailhead.
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