25. Cowlitz Chimney, Central, 7421' (S)

Central Cowlitz Chimney is a long but beautiful trip. Leave early to avoid using headlamps on the return trip. If you attempt to combine this trip with the Main Cowlitz Chimney, you will likely run out of daylight. It is such a beautiful part of the park that doing each peak separately is well worth it. Cowlitz was the name of an Indian tribe in the area. The Cowlitz River was mentioned by the Lewis and Clark Expedition of 1804–1806, when the river was called the Coweliskee. Apparently the name means “capturing the medicine spirit.”

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Driving

Drive SR 410 4.5 miles south of the Crystal Mountain ski area turnoff and turn right on Sunrise Park Road. Drive 4.5 miles, until you cross the Fryingpan River Bridge. Park just beyond the bridge on the right side of the road. The Summerland trailhead is on the west side of the road.

Route

From the Summerland trailhead, travel the trail to Panhandle Gap. At the gap, take the boot trail heading left (east). Follow the broad open slope heading toward Banshee. From a saddle at 7020', travel at a bearing of 63 degrees and head toward Central Cowlitz. There is another saddle at 7165'. From there, a boot path should take you to the summit.

Comments

Helmets should be worn on the final approach. Goats are frequently encountered north of Panhandle Gap. Please stay clear of the goats. Tread carefully on the fragile tundra. This trip can easily be combined with a side jaunt to Banshee (see the Banshee route description). 

Vital Statistics: Cowlitz Chimney, Central

• Skill: Moderate scramble

• Beauty: 9

• Effort: 9

• Round-trip distance: 14.4 miles

• Elevation gain: 4200'

• Total time: 12 hours

• Best season: Mid-July through September

• Equipment: Scramble gear, helmet

Cowlitz Chimney, Central Topo