Jumpoff Ridge—Follow an old logging road-turned-trail into the new Wild Sky Wilderness.
Mount Persis as seen from Jumpoff Ridge
Quick Facts
Location: North Fork of the Skykomish River near Index
Land Agency: National Forest Service
Roundtrip: 8.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 2,100 feet
Access: From Everett follow US 2 east for 35 miles turning left onto the Index-Galena Road (FR 63). Turn off is just after the bridge crossing of the Skykomish River. Continue for 3.9 miles to the “trailhead;” an old gated road on your right.
Contact: Skykomish Ranger District: Mount Baker Snoqualmie National Forest (360) 677-2414; www.fs.fed.us/r6/mbs
Green Trails Map: Index WA- No. 142
About a decade ago, hiking guidebook pioneer and trails advocate Ira Spring put together a book identifying decommissioned logging roads that would make for ideal trails. One of his findings was the old FR 6310 to Jumpoff Ridge on Gunn Peak high above the North Fork of the Skykomish River.
Boasting a nice grade, solitude, and exceptional views, it was a good choice. And today nearly 10 years after he recommended it, the Jumpoff Ridge Road has converted nicely to trail. Most of the way is single track, and downed trees and encroaching brush—impediments on many old roads are not much of an issue on this route. The biggest change to the landscape however since the report was issued, is that this road no longer leads to logging operations but instead into the Wild Sky Wilderness. Signed into law in May of 2009, the 100,000-plus acre wilderness is Washington’s newest, protecting old-growth forests and rugged mountain peaks and ridges just outside of the busy US 2 corridor.
Start in lush moss-draped forest. The roar of the North Fork Skykomish fills the air. At about 1.0 mile rock hop across cascading Canyon Creek. Now begin gaining elevation more steadily. At 1.7 miles, come to a huge rockslide. Be careful traversing it—then resume on good tread once more.
The old road switchbacks, working its way up a steep slope before coming to Bitter Creek flowing beside a huge talus slope. Now on fairly level terrain, follow the creek towards a huge snow-rimmed cirque on 6,200-plus foot Gunn Peak; then angle away it for a final climb.
The road makes a few last twists and turns. Alder and willows are busy colonizing the road bed, but you won’t have any problems walking through them. At 4.1 miles, come to the end of the road (el. 2,940 feet) at the edge of old growth forest high upon the ridge.
Scrappy trees have done a good job blocking the views. You’ll need to crash a little brush to reach an opening. But it’s worth it. Enjoy a good view west to Heybrook Ridge, Ragged Ridge, Mount Persis and the Skykomish River Valley. Return later in the year and feast on plentiful huckleberries!
For information on lodging and other attractions near Jumpoff Ridge, visit www.snohomish.org. For more information on trails around Jumpoff Ridge, check out my Day Hiking Central Cascades Book (Mountaineers Books).
