This 8-miler starts in Number Two Canyon and climbs an old road past giant ponderosas, a willow-lined creek, and countless wildflowers. At mile 1.8, the path winds through returning forest peppered with silver snags from recent burns—watch for woodpeckers, warblers, and mountain bluebirds. The terrain levels slightly and enters a diverse ecosystem filled with pine trees and sage after 2.4 miles (where 100-foot side path diverges from the road to spectacular views above Number One Canyon).
One mile later, bear right at a fork in the road, heading north toward Horse Lake Mountain; search the skies for raptors and turkey vultures that circle overhead. After 3.8 miles, bear right at a 4-way junction, and follow the trail to a highpoint on Horse Lake Mountain with panoramic views. Before retracing your route to the trailhead, scope out Glacier Peak and the Entiat Mountains that rise in the distant northwest, and scan the southwest horizon for Mount Rainier’s familiar profile.
-Mapped by Alan Bauer, Alan Bauer Photography
To Trailhead
From S. Mission St. and Orondo Ave., head southwest on Orondo Ave. In 0.7 mile, continue straight onto Cherry St. In 1.2 miles, turn left onto S. Western Ave. In 0.1 mile, bear right onto Number 2 Canyon Rd. Follow 4.3 miles to a small parking pull-out at the end of the paved road.
