Vesper Peak and Headlee Pass via Sunrise Mine Trail

Starting your adventure near Snohomish County, Washington, the trailhead for Vesper Peak and Headlee Pass via Sunrise Mine Trail is accessible by car. From Seattle, take I-5 North to exit 194 for US-2 East toward Wenatchee. Continue on US-2 East for about 28 miles (45 km) until you reach the town of Gold Bar. From there, turn left onto Forest Road 4065 and follow it for approximately 13 miles (21 km) to the Sunrise Mine Trailhead. Public transport options are limited, so driving is the most reliable way to reach the trailhead.Trail Overview and Initial AscentThe trail begins at an elevation of around 2,000 feet (610 meters) and immediately immerses you in a dense forest of Douglas fir and western hemlock. The first section of the trail is relatively gentle, allowing you to warm up as you follow the South Fork of the Stillaguamish River. After about 1.5 miles (2.4 km), the trail starts to climb more steeply, gaining elevation quickly as you approach Headlee Pass.Headlee PassAt approximately 3 miles (4.8 km) into the hike, you'll reach Headlee Pass, a narrow, rocky chute that requires some scrambling. This section can be challenging, especially if the rocks are wet or if there's lingering snow. The elevation gain here is significant, rising to about 4,600 feet (1,400 meters). Take your time and ensure you have a good grip on the rocks. Once you conquer Headlee Pass, you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.Vesper Lake and Final AscentAfter navigating Headlee Pass, the trail levels out briefly as you approach Vesper Lake, a serene alpine lake nestled at the base of Vesper Peak. This is a great spot to take a break, refuel, and enjoy the scenery. From Vesper Lake, the final push to the summit of Vesper Peak begins. The trail becomes less defined here, so it's crucial to have a reliable navigation tool like HiiKER to stay on track.The ascent to Vesper Peak involves a mix of hiking and scrambling over granite slabs. The elevation gain from Vesper Lake to the summit is about 1,200 feet (365 meters), bringing you to a total elevation of approximately 6,214 feet (1,894 meters) at the peak. The summit offers panoramic views of the North Cascades, including iconic peaks like Mount Rainier and Glacier Peak.Flora, Fauna, and Historical SignificanceThroughout the hike, you'll encounter a variety of flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for mountain goats, marmots, and a diverse array of alpine wildflowers, especially in the summer months. The region has a rich history, with the trail passing through areas once explored by early miners in search of precious metals. The remnants of old mining equipment can still be seen near the trailhead, offering a glimpse into the area's past.Descent and ReturnThe return journey follows the same path, descending back through Headlee Pass and the forested sections to the trailhead. Be cautious on the descent, especially in the rocky areas, to avoid slips and falls. The total round trip distance is around 11 km (6.8 miles), with an elevation gain of approximately 1,400 meters (4,593 feet).This trail is best tackled by experienced hikers due to its challenging sections and significant elevation gain. Ensure you're well-prepared with proper gear, sufficient water, and a reliable navigation tool like HiiKER to make the most of your adventure.