Osborne Mountain Out and Back

Starting your adventure near Lewis County, Washington, the Osborne Mountain Out and Back trail offers a challenging yet rewarding experience. This 15 km (approximately 9.3 miles) trail features an elevation gain of around 1200 meters (about 3937 feet), making it a medium difficulty hike suitable for those with a moderate level of fitness.

Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transportation. If driving, head towards Lewis County, Washington, and look for signs directing you to the trailhead near the nearest known landmark, which is the town of Packwood. For those using public transport, the nearest major transit hub is in Centralia, WA. From Centralia, you can take a local bus or arrange for a shuttle service to Packwood.

Trail Overview The trail begins with a gentle ascent through dense forest, where you'll be surrounded by towering Douglas firs and western hemlocks. The first 3 km (1.9 miles) are relatively easy, with an elevation gain of about 200 meters (656 feet), making it a good warm-up for the more strenuous sections ahead.

Mid-Trail Landmarks As you progress, the trail becomes steeper and more rugged. Around the 5 km (3.1 miles) mark, you'll encounter a series of switchbacks that will take you up an additional 400 meters (1312 feet) in elevation. This section can be quite demanding, so take your time and enjoy the views of the surrounding Cascade Range.

At approximately 7 km (4.3 miles), you'll reach a small clearing known as Bear Meadow. This is a great spot to take a break, have a snack, and enjoy the panoramic views. Keep an eye out for local wildlife such as black bears, deer, and various bird species. Always remember to maintain a safe distance from wildlife and follow Leave No Trace principles.

Final Ascent The final push to the summit of Osborne Mountain is the most challenging part of the hike. The last 1.5 km (0.9 miles) involves a steep climb with an elevation gain of about 600 meters (1968 feet). The trail here is rocky and can be slippery, especially after rain, so good hiking boots and trekking poles are recommended.

Summit and Return Upon reaching the summit, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views of the Cascade Range, including Mount Rainier to the north and Mount St. Helens to the south. This is a perfect spot for photos and to take in the natural beauty of the area.

After enjoying the summit, retrace your steps back to the trailhead. The descent can be tough on the knees, so take it slow and steady. The entire hike typically takes around 6-8 hours, depending on your pace and the number of breaks you take.

Historical Significance The region around Osborne Mountain has a rich history, with roots tracing back to the Native American tribes who originally inhabited the area. The trail itself was used by early settlers and loggers in the 19th century, and remnants of old logging equipment can still be found along the way.

Navigation For navigation, it's highly recommended to use the HiiKER app, which provides detailed maps and real-time updates to ensure you stay on the right path.

Prepare well, bring plenty of water, snacks, and layers of clothing to adapt to changing weather conditions. Enjoy your hike on the Osborne Mountain Out and Back trail!