Except for day hiking The Core Enchantments, this is the most strenuous trail on the list. Not only that, but if you are coming from the Seattle area, the drive is pretty horrendous. For those reasons, I thought we would find some solitude on the trail to Carne Mountain. Boy, was I wrong! I can honestly say that this was the busiest I have ever seen a hiking trail in Washington. To be fair, it was a Saturday during peak larch season. But it was also pretty crappy weather, so go figure.

I mention this not because I want to persuade you from hiking Carne Mountain. I don’t! It’s on my list of best larch hikes in Washington for a reason. But I also think that it’s essential to set realistic expectations. If you show up on the weekend during larch season, you will likely be sharing the trail up to Carne Mountain with hundreds of other hikers and their dogs. Fair warning.

Now for the good stuff! Start out on the Phelps Creek Trail 0.25 miles to the Carne Mountain Trail. Once you are on the Carne Mountain Trail, you are looking at approximately 3 miles of relentless switchbacks through dense forest before you finally break out into a basin filled with golden larches. It can be tempting to stop here, and I noticed that many people did just that. I encourage you to keep going! Trust me, the final push up to the summit is well worth it and nothing compared to what you have already completed. Turn left at the Old Gin Trail junction and head up to the saddle between Carne Mountains two summits. The higher of the two is to the left. From there, enjoy 360-degree views and larches as far as the eye can see!

Pro Tip: Carne is pronounced “karn” as opposed to “kar-nay.”

Distance: 8 miles Elevation Gain: 3,600 ft. Difficulty: Difficult