Mt Walker — Local services in Poulsbo

Ok... So I give this trail a reluctant 4-stars because it's an insanely steep incline the ENTIRE way. If you're good with that - cool. But if you're not an experienced mountain hiker or not in the best shape (i.e., have buns & thighs of steel), this hike will feel like slow death. It's a 2,000+ ft elevation gain in just over 2 miles. That's like climbing a 200 story building's stairwell.

Take water. Take snacks. Take breaks. Take pictures!

Also be careful where you step because it's a narrow trail with a number of switchbacks & it's a very steep drop over the side. The north viewpoint at the top is ok; not spectacular - especially not for the effort required to get there. Keep walking past it & up the road to the south viewpoint - it's more rewarding. It catches the sunlight so you can warm up (it's high altitude enough to have a light layer of frost). There are also two benches for resting & enjoying the view.

Be aware, there are Warblers (birds) at the south viewpoint & they're accustomed to people feeding them so they WILL snatch food out of your hands or swoop down on you if they see you raise your hands or grab anything (like your camera). They're not mean, though, just shameless. They're super cute & happy to...

The hike up was a long slow burn up which I dont mind but its a major workout. The giant bees/horseflies wouldn't buzz off and there was a good deal of mosquitoes. I have done a lot of hiking but I particularly hated this trail because it was a horrible slip and slide the whole 2.5 miles down. Not fun when your legs are shaky already from the workout. Trekking poles and good hiking shoes/boots greatly advised!

The Canada jays at the viewpoint were adorable but aggressively friendly for food. They are harmless though, and will eat from your hand gently if you let them. It's not great they are depending on human food though.

I'm giving it 3 stars because the views were great at the top. But I would drive up next time. At very least I would bring trekking poles and a lot of bug spray...

I drove all the way up to the viewpoint and it was amazing! So glad I didnt do the steep hike. The road is pretty narrow but, plenty of spots to pull over to let other cars pass by. RVs and trailers are not allowed up the road at a certain point.

There is a north view point and south view. Each viewpoint has space for parking, bathrooms, and a super short trail to get to...