- …
- Yak
- Quests
- Washington 100 Highest
- Gardner Mountain
8,901 ft · Cascade Range, Washington
Gardner Mountain
Gardner Mountain is an 8,901 ft peak in the Cascade Range, Washington. The standard route is the South Slope via Gardner Meadows: 25 mi, 7,300 ft of gain, Class 2.
Photo: Peter Stevens, CC BY 2.0
Gardner Mountain at a glance
- Elevation8,901 ft2,713 m
- RouteSouth Slope via Gardner MeadowsClass 2
- Distance25 mi7,300 ft gain
- Time2 – 3 daysHard effort
- SeasonJun – Sep
- RangeCascade RangeWashington
Climbing the South Slope via Gardner Meadows
From Winthrop, cross the Methow River and follow Twin Lakes Road, Wolf Creek Road and Forest Road 5505 to the Wolf Creek trailhead. Walk the up-and-down Wolf Creek Trail about 10.5 miles to Gardner Meadows, with little shade after the 2021 fire, and camp. Head north off the trail, keep left of the stream draining the big gully, and climb steep meadow, then about 1,700 feet of loose scree and rock bands to the broad summit plateau (Class 2). Wind is often strong on top, and June snow may call for crampons. A Northwest Forest Pass is required; fill out the free wilderness permit at the trailhead.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (55–75 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
- Remote location
- High winds
- Snow near summit
Quests with Gardner Mountain
Washington 100 HighestFrequently asked questions
How tall is Gardner Mountain?
Gardner Mountain is 8,901 feet (2,713 m) tall. It is in the Cascade Range, Washington.
How hard is it to hike Gardner Mountain?
The South Slope via Gardner Meadows is Class 2, which means off-trail hiking with some use of your hands for balance. Yak rates the overall effort hard: 25 miles with 7,300 feet of elevation gain.
How many days does it take to climb Gardner Mountain?
Most climbers plan 2 – 3 days for the South Slope via Gardner Meadows, with at least one night on the mountain.
Can a beginner hike Gardner Mountain?
The South Slope via Gardner Meadows needs no climbing skills, but it is a hard trip: 25 miles with 7,300 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 Gardner Mountain?
The usual hiking window is June to September. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.
Climb Gardner Mountain 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