Mount Aix - Mount Aix Trail, October 2013
Seemingly out of place for this part of the southern Washington Cascades, 7766-ft Mount Aix is a prominent peak well east of the Cascade Crest with excellent 360 degree views that include Rainier, Adams, Goat Rocks and the Stuart Range. Approached via the Mount Aix Trail, it’s just a 12-mile hike (round-trip) with only a short bit of class 2/3 scrambling to reach the top. About a third of the route is on high ridges which are often frequented by mountain goats. The trail’s southwestern exposure makes it a great late-season venue after the first snow has claimed the more shaded north and east aspects. The neighboring peaks and bowls, including Aix itself also appear to offer excellent ski touring potential, was it not for seasonal pass closures making for a long drive from Seattle.
