51. Martin Peak, 4880' (S)

Martin Peak is often combined with Virginia, Berry, and August. These four peaks are all accessible from just inside the park boundary on the Mowich Lake Road. It is possible to climb all four peaks in one day. Starting from the Mowich Road entrance, we suggest the following order of peaks: August, Virginia, Berry, Martin. There are decent views from each peak, though some of the peaks are wooded and you will have to peek between the trees. The origin of Martin Peak’s name is uncertain.

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Driving

On the road to Mowich Lake, park approximately 600' past the national park boundary sign on the right side of the road (parking for several cars is available along the road, elevation 3610').

Route

This unmarked trail was once the West Boundary Trail and is shown on the USGS map (but not on the Green Trails map). It is currently not maintained, though it is in reasonably good shape. There is a footpath heading up the hillside on the left (north) side of the road, across from the parking pull-off area. The footpath is located just a few feet uphill and opposite a sign that says “backcountry camping requires permit.” At the fourth switchback, come to Howling Wolf Pinnacle (named by a friends of ours), a prominent rock formation just west of the park boundary. (Of interest, located behind the pinnacle and hidden from the trail, is a memorial sign.) The trail then starts a rising traverse and is fairly easy to follow, though overgrown in places. Martin is closest of the four peaks to the trailhead, and the turnoff for Martin is only 1 mile from the trailhead. Stay on the boundary trail until reaching the Martin Virginia saddle (4600’) and leave the trail doubling back on the ridge to the summit. There is a developing boot track up the ridge. Stay on the left side of the ridge in timber. A few downed trees add a bit of spice.

Comments

This West Boundary Trail once connected Mowich Lake Road to the Carbon River Entrance. Currently the trail is only passable from Mowich Lake Road to the August-Poch saddle and from the Carbon River Entrance to Tolmie Creek. The portion between Tolmie Creek and the August-Poch saddle is completely overgrown. We have been told that the Park Service has plans to refurbish the entire West Boundary Trail.

Vital Statistics: Martin Peak

• Skill: Easy scramble

• Beauty: 4

• Effort: 2, 7 for all four peaks

• Round-trip distance: 2.6 miles, 8.6 miles for all four peaks, approximately half is on an unmaintained trail and other half is off trail)

• Elevation gain: 1270’, 4030’ for all four peaks

• Total time: 2:30 hours, 10 hours for all four peaks

• Best season: July through September

• Equipment Scramble gear

Martin Peak Topo