Campsite at the base of Vesper Peak

@michaelmatti

Washington

•

Granite Falls

Vesper Peak is the perfect spot to spend a night in the breathtaking mountains of Washington. Gaze up at the magnificent summits that surround your campsite and watch as the low-hanging clouds roll through the encircling forest.

Plan

Overview

Skill level

Difficult

Accessbility

Public Location

Hours

Anytime (when Mountain Loop Highway is open)

Fee

Free

Pack

Wide-angle lens (21mm)
Camping gear
Plenty of warm layers
Water filter
Food
Bug spray
Bright tent/jacket
Micro-spikes (depending on weather)

How to get there

N48° 00' 40.1832"W121° 30' 22.2912"

This photo of the campsite base was taken along the Vesper Peak Trail, just below the final 1,000 feet of elevation gain to the summit of Vesper Peak. To reach this spot, you'll need to get to the Sunrise Mine Trailhead/Vesper Peak Trailhead (48.024718, -121.477896). Coming from the west on Mountain Loop Highway, drive 17.6 miles past the ranger station and then turn right onto NF-4065. Drive 2.2 miles down this road until it ends at the trailhead. The trail from here to this campsite is pretty easy to follow and it's about 2.6 miles with 3200 feet of elevation gain. You'll know you've reached the spot where I took this photo when you cross the small stream coming out of Vesper Lake and there are clearings on your left.