Trail #2 Summit Prairie
This is a multi-use trail.
Starting at the Forest Road 90, the 9 mile Summit Prairie Trail begins with a steep climb for 2 miles before crossing Road 9075 near the west end of Quartz Creek Butte Trail 5B. From this point, the trail continues north in a series of switchbacks to the crest of Quartz Creek Ridge. As you traverse the ridge top, meadows reward you with views into the expansive tree-lined valleys of Quartz and French Creeks. The horizon holds snowcapped volcanoes and high open ridges of the Dark Divide.
Before reaching the junction with the Boundary Trail #1, you will pass by remains of the Summit Prairie fire lookout built in 1929-1930. The lookout was abandoned in the 1960s, but if you use your imagination, you can visualize what it must have been like to be a fireguard at this remote location. As you near the junction with the Boundary Trail, a small prairie opens where domestic sheep herds and Forest Service pack stock once grazed in the summer months.
Specific Trail Information
Trail Number
General Information
Low elevation trails typically melt out by mid-May. High elevation trails typically melt out by mid-July. Snow may persist in spots on north facing slopes. There may be downed trees, washouts, and/or landslides on trails. Carrying mosquito repellent is advisable. Backcountry creeks and streams may dry out so plan ahead in case you need to bring in water. Recreating in burned areas poses greater risks. See safety tips for burned areas. Please assist in reporting wildfires by calling 911 or Columbia Dispatch at (360) 891-5140. Sign up for emergency alerts by county.
Treat all non potable water before consuming.
Getting There
Directions
From Cougar, WA travel east on Forest Road 90 for about 41 miles. The access point is about a mile west of the Forest Road 88 intersection with Forest Road 90.
Trail can be accessed from Forest Road 90 via Quartz Creek Trail or from the Boundary Trail #1.
Additional Information
Operated By
Forest Service
