Once on top of the ridge you break into alpine country and grassy hillsides and basins, spectacularly beautiful country. The view is awesome, Rainier hangs over the whole area, you can see Adams, St. Helens and on clear days can see the very point of Hood.

Continuing on along Tatoosh Ridge #161 the trail the trail drops off then climbs again to the intersection with trail #161.1 leading to the old Tatoosh Lookout (.5 mile more with a 500 ft elevation gain).

Wild game abounds, I regularly see deer, elk, goats, bear, grouse and small critters. It's a tough trail on stock. "Pretty dangerous" I've heard it described, but from the horsemen I've talked to, it can be done.

This hike is not for the meek, I get up in there about 10-12 times per year, most during hunting season, but this place is spectacular.
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Driving Directions:
From the town of Packwood on Highway 12, turn north onto Skate Creek road (FS #52). Follow for about four miles, then turn right onto FS #5270. Drive 5.8 miles to a junction and turn onto FS #5272. Drive 1.5 miles more to reach the trailhead.
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