Tonga Ridge / Mount Sawyer
Sep 30, 2023Distance: ~6.5 mi · Elevation gain: 1,200 ft · Drive: ~2 hr
Near: Index, WA · Pass: Northwest Forest Pass
WTA
We picked this one for the fall colors and weren’t disappointed. The trail climbs through dense forest before opening onto a long ridgeline with sweeping views of the Cascades in every direction. The huckleberry bushes had all turned deep red and the whole ridge was on fire with color.
The forest on the way up was full of mushrooms — an embarrassment of fungi at every step.
Once we broke out of the trees the views opened up fast. On a clear September day you could see all the way to the Cascades spine — snowcapped peaks above a sea of red and gold.
And then at the top, I proposed. Jamel said yes.
WTA lists this as 8 miles but it’s noticeably shorter — closer to 6.5. The trailhead is easy to find off US-2 past Skykomish. Northwest Forest Pass required. Go in late September when the huckleberries turn.
