Mailbox Peak Summit — Attraction in North Bend

Love this hike for a fitness check!! There is not any water on the new or old trail besides at the bottom of the trails so make sure you bring enough. Not that pretty going up till you hit the Boulder field. Then you can start seeing mt Rainier an the valley. There are about 3 false summits so don't get excited until you see the mailbox!! Old trail is pretty exciting, if your going up where it looks like a path your on trail.. very rough trail with a lot of big step ups an rocks an roots. The new trail is a bit longer but actually a trail, an it has switchbacks vs just going straight up basically on the old trail. Going down the old trail is an adventure since it is so rugged you need to pay attention. On a learning day you can see mt Rainier, baker,...

I did mailbox peak for the first time a few weeks ago on a Friday. I arrived at the lower lot around 11:30 a.m. and set off on the old trail with my 15 pound pack and trekking poles. The trail was pretty rough but easy enough to follow. It was a cool day but the incline on the trail quickly made it hot! It took me about 2 hours to get up to the summit, I am a moderately experienced hiker and in good shape. The trail was not crowded on that particular day and there was no snow. This trail is not a leisurely stroll, it is very difficult, I went through almost 2 liters of water and I ate several snacks at the top. I spent about an hour up there just enjoying the views and talking with fellow hikers. Awesome trail that I highly recommend, but prepare for a...

I think this hike is overhyped. Firstly, the required stuff. the trail is in great condition and never gets too steep until the last 1000 feet, but even that can best be described as walking up stairs. the insects were fine and the views would have been nice if it wasn't for the wildfire smoke haze.

this hike is talked about by so many and they come close to comparing it to a religious or life-changing experience. the peaaak is nice and the bear grass and Indian paintbrush is very pretty, however everything before this is a long slog through a lifeless forest. it's boring. I would give this a 3/5 star rating only because there are Pika. no hike with those adorable little guys gets under a 3 start, but if they weren't there it would...