Juniper Ridge, Jumbo Peak
Location: Dark Divide
18 miles total, 4,900' gained, starting from Rd. 2904
7 miles total, 1,500' gained, starting from Rd. 2324
driving directions
trail map
forest service site
weather forecast for this area
Described are out and back hikes starting from Road 2904, and a shorter version starting from Road 2324, both reaching Jumbo Peak in the Dark Divide area.
Either one will lead to spectacular scenery. But first. . .
The trails are generally chewed up to some degree by motorcycles (allowed here), are steep in sections and have significant inclines/declines. Walking uphill may actually take less energy than negotiating the tricky footing going downhill. Additionally, there will likely be no water in the summer. So if you can deal with those issues, you are all set to experience one of the most unique trips in this part of the state.
From Road 2904 (Juniper Ridge) - the 18 mile route basically takes in the entire area, passing by Juniper Peak, traversing Juniper Ridge, then passing along Sunrise Peak on the way to Jumbo Peak. Forested stretches give way top open areas; low points to hilltops - each time it's as if a curtain has opened exposing something you haven't seen before on the trail: All the volcanoes, Goat Rocks, and other rocky landmarks of the Dark Divide. A couple unnamed rock cliffs are viewed close-up, as are many broad meadows. You won't mind retracing your steps back, as this isn't one of those 'destination' hikes with the payoff at the halfway mark. A dozen points from mile three through 15 will make you want to pause and take your camera out. Additionally, side trips to the summits of Sunrise Peak, Jumbo Peak and Juniper Peak add even more variety. If you care to 'check the boxes', bagging all three peaks - each with their own amazing view - is about a 20 mile trip. See trail map for a few notes on reaching these high points.
From Road 2324 (Sunrise Peak) - the route places you somewhat in the middle of the north-south #261 trail, passing just south of Sunrise Peak and then a modest distance to Jumbo Peak. The 18 miler is a tough day hike, so this shorter trip may be a good introduction to the area. Jumbo Peak - and slightly beyond - are essentially the best of the best. Including the short trailed side trip up Sunrise Peak adds a bit of a loop to the trip.
Weekdays best (fewer motorcycles) mid-summer through fall. No permits needed.
7 miles total, 1,500' gained, starting from Rd. 2324
driving directions
trail map
forest service site
weather forecast for this area
Described are out and back hikes starting from Road 2904, and a shorter version starting from Road 2324, both reaching Jumbo Peak in the Dark Divide area.
Either one will lead to spectacular scenery. But first. . .
The trails are generally chewed up to some degree by motorcycles (allowed here), are steep in sections and have significant inclines/declines. Walking uphill may actually take less energy than negotiating the tricky footing going downhill. Additionally, there will likely be no water in the summer. So if you can deal with those issues, you are all set to experience one of the most unique trips in this part of the state.
From Road 2904 (Juniper Ridge) - the 18 mile route basically takes in the entire area, passing by Juniper Peak, traversing Juniper Ridge, then passing along Sunrise Peak on the way to Jumbo Peak. Forested stretches give way top open areas; low points to hilltops - each time it's as if a curtain has opened exposing something you haven't seen before on the trail: All the volcanoes, Goat Rocks, and other rocky landmarks of the Dark Divide. A couple unnamed rock cliffs are viewed close-up, as are many broad meadows. You won't mind retracing your steps back, as this isn't one of those 'destination' hikes with the payoff at the halfway mark. A dozen points from mile three through 15 will make you want to pause and take your camera out. Additionally, side trips to the summits of Sunrise Peak, Jumbo Peak and Juniper Peak add even more variety. If you care to 'check the boxes', bagging all three peaks - each with their own amazing view - is about a 20 mile trip. See trail map for a few notes on reaching these high points.
From Road 2324 (Sunrise Peak) - the route places you somewhat in the middle of the north-south #261 trail, passing just south of Sunrise Peak and then a modest distance to Jumbo Peak. The 18 miler is a tough day hike, so this shorter trip may be a good introduction to the area. Jumbo Peak - and slightly beyond - are essentially the best of the best. Including the short trailed side trip up Sunrise Peak adds a bit of a loop to the trip.
Weekdays best (fewer motorcycles) mid-summer through fall. No permits needed.
From below Juniper Peak, looking south along Juniper Ridge. Sunrise Peak and Jumbo Peak in the distance.
Mt. Adams from top of Juniper Peak.
Goat Rocks from Juniper Ridge
Mt. Rainier from Juniper Ridge
Just north of Sunrise Peak
Rock face nearing Jumbo Peak
Jumbo Peak in distance
Sunrise Peak, Mt. Rainier, Juniper Ridge
Mt. Hood
Looking west from top of Jumbo Peak.