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8,330 ft · Cascade Range, Washington

Abernathy Peak

Abernathy Peak is an 8,330 ft peak in the Cascade Range, Washington. The standard route is the Scatter Creek Trail and North Slope: 11 mi, 5,250 ft of gain, Class 2.

Abernathy Peak at a glance

  • Elevation8,330 ft2,538 m
  • RouteScatter Creek Trail and North SlopeClass 2
  • Distance11 mi5,250 ft gain
  • Time8 – 10 hrsHard effort
  • SeasonJul – Oct
  • RangeCascade RangeWashington

Climbing the Scatter Creek Trail and North Slope

From Twisp, drive Twisp River Road west, continuing on Forest Roads 44 and 4440, to the Scatter Creek trailhead. Take the Twisp River Trail briefly, then switchback up the Scatter Creek Trail through forest and meadow to Scatter Lake in a larch basin. From the lake, climb the steep scree slope at the head of the basin, trending left onto a rocky rib where a boot path leads to the top (Class 2). The scree slides underfoot, so the rib gives better footing. Brush and blowdowns slow the lower trail, and larches turn gold in early October. A Northwest Forest Pass is required; fill out the free wilderness permit at the trailhead.

Gear and hazards

What to bring

  • Backpack (35–55 L)
  • Hiking Boots
  • Water
  • Offline Maps
  • Headlamp
  • Satellite Communicator
  • Whistle
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Sun Hat
  • Midlayer
  • Insulated Jacket
  • Hardshell Jacket
  • Warm Hat
  • Buff
  • Midweight Gloves
  • Trekking Poles
  • GPS Device
  • Power Bank
  • Water Filter
  • First-Aid Kit
  • Emergency Bivy

What to watch for

  • Loose rock
  • Slippery terrain
  • High winds
  • Storms

Quests with Abernathy Peak

Frequently asked questions

How tall is Abernathy Peak?

Abernathy Peak is 8,330 feet (2,538 m) tall. It is in the Cascade Range, Washington.

How hard is it to hike Abernathy Peak?

The Scatter Creek Trail and North Slope is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort hard: 11 miles with 5,250 feet of elevation gain.

How long does it take to hike Abernathy Peak?

Most people take 8 – 10 hours round trip on the Scatter Creek Trail and North Slope, covering 11 miles with 5,250 feet of elevation gain. That is a long day, so start before dawn and set a turnaround time.

Can a beginner hike Abernathy Peak?

The Scatter Creek Trail and North Slope needs no climbing skills, but it is a hard day: 11 miles with 5,250 feet of elevation gain. Build up on shorter hikes first, start early and carry plenty of water and layers.

When is the best time to hike Abernathy Peak?

The usual hiking window is July to October. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.

Climb Abernathy Peak with Yak

Plan your route on a topo map, check the summit forecast, then log your climb and see what is left on your list