[Urban Gnome]

I went up there years ago in the Summertime. I just got some boot spikes and I want to try them out soon so I thought that might be a good place to start. I don't have a lot of experience, mostly day hiking in good weather. I have a frame backpack and I'm still in the process of putting together the "ten essentials". Any advice or other info would be appreciated also. Thanks!

[Chief Joseph]

I would probably go but I am in Idaho for the winter...they do close the gate at the Heather lake TH and it's about a 6 mile walk from there to the Pilchuck TH...not sure when it will be closed, but I do know that they closed it really early last year, anyone recall?

[Urban Gnome]

Thanks for the info, I will check with the ranger station in Verlot to make sure. If that is the case, I'm opening up this invitation to anywhere else in this area that is more easily accessible. Verlot Ranger Station - https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/mbs/about-forest/offices/?cid=stelprdb5228753

[Urban Gnome]

Update - I just called the ranger station. The road to Heather Lake will be open for one more week so it will be closed by 11/22

[Chief Joseph]

Dickerman might be a good option if the gate is still open at Deer creek road.

[BlameTheDogz]

Greetings! Great timing and idea! I think/hope the gate is still open as I plan to hike, spike, and maybe snowshoe up Dickerman tomorrow afternoon! Cheers!

[xallas]

Amazing timing with the post! I think I will do Dickerman Sunday, hopefully weather cooperates.

[BlameTheDogz]

Hopefully there’s still a good path to near the top, which was pretty wind blown. I did not end up using any traction devices, but I went later in the day and carried spikes and snowshoes. Not nearly enough snow for the winter route yet yet. Cheers!

[Chief Joseph]

A few years back, they left the gate open longer, the good old days?