Mount Kit Carson Loop Road, Trail 140 and Trail 110 Loop

Parking is available within Mount Spokane State Park. A common access point for this loop, which includes Trail 140 and Trail 110, is often near the Mount Kit Carson Loop Road. You'll find amenities like an outhouse at Saddle Junction, which is a good indicator of a significant access point.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trails within Mount Spokane State Park. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all trail users.

The ideal time for hiking the Mount Kit Carson Loop is from late spring through early fall. During summer, you can enjoy vibrant wildflowers, and August is particularly known for spectacular bear grass displays and huckleberries. The trail is also accessible in winter for snowshoeing and snowmobiling.

Yes, a Discover Pass is typically required for vehicle access to Washington State Parks, including Mount Spokane State Park. You can purchase a day pass or an annual pass.

The loop offers diverse terrain. You'll experience gradual ascents through dense forests, some initial steep climbs on sections like Trail 110, and a steeper, rockier push to the summit. The Mount Kit Carson Loop Road itself provides a wide, gentle grade in some sections, while Trail 140 includes descents with twists and switchbacks.

The diverse environment supports various wildlife, including deer and many bird species. You might also spot black bears, mountain goats, or moose. In terms of plants, expect dense forests of Douglas fir and western red cedar, vibrant wildflowers in alpine meadows during summer, and huckleberries in August. You'll also pass through areas with old-growth trees.

The loop offers abundant natural beauty and historical features. You'll pass through the Mount Kit Carson Loop Trail, Trail 110, and Trail 140. From the summit of Mount Kit Carson, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views, including Mount Spokane, the Selkirk Range, Newman Lake, and even the distant Cascade Range. You can also discover remnants of old fire lookout towers and the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Heritage Area.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several official trails. You will hike along parts of Trail 140, Trail 110, and the Mount Kit Carson Loop Road itself. It also passes through the Blueberry Trail.

This loop is generally rated as moderate and is best suited for hikers with some experience. While it has challenging sections due to elevation gain, it's not typically considered dangerous. Some shorter variations within the park, like a 3.7-mile route incorporating the Loop Road and Trail 100, are considered easier.

Yes, you'll find several amenities along the route. These include picnic tables, shelters, and an outhouse at Saddle Junction. In winter, there's also a snowshoe warming hut available at Smith Gap.

The trails on this loop are multi-use. You'll be sharing them with mountain bikers (especially on Trail 140, which is a main downhill route), equestrians, and in winter, snowshoers and snowmobilers. Always be aware of your surroundings and yield appropriately to other users.