Swakane Peak

Head to the top of Swakane Peak (unnamed on maps) for expansive views across the Columbia River and a peek-a-boo view of Icicle Ridge to the west.  Two of the routes can be combined for a loop day trip.

Follow the route for Swakane Canyon to the fourth switchback, at 1.9 miles and 2630 feet of elevation. Now it's decision time. A longer route continues along the road for an additional 3.5 miles to a saddle at 3850 feet of elevation, south of the peak. A more direct route involves a cross-country northeast hike up the rib and then more steeply to the south saddle, but this is not recommended, since you'd be tramping grass and flowers.

Once at the south saddle, the shortest route to the top follows a faint boot trail that climbs steeply to the north for 0.3 mile. The route follows the ridge crest, bearing slightly west (left) to get around rock outcroppings. It finishes with a 3 step scramble to the top, 3.7 miles from the trailhead and at 4297 ft. elevation. 

A "no hands" route is available starting from a western saddle 0.3 miles farther along Rd 5215. This boot/game trail approximately follows the ridgecrest heading east-southeast for 0.3 mile to the top.

The views from the top are primarily to the east and south. They include the Waterville Plateau, Badger Mountain, The Columbia River, Wenatchee, Mission Peak, and a narrow view of Icicle Ridge to the west.

A third route to the top is available in the summer and fall. Utilize a motorized vehicle to drive or ride up Mill Canyon from the Entiat Valley (USFS Rd 52 & 5215) to the gate at the western saddle at 3890 feet of elevation.  Leave your vehicle at the gate and hike the 0.3 mile up to the top.