After approximately three years of convincing myself it wasn't wise to attempt this trip solo, Michael B and I commenced a trek that took us to two mountain peaks, (Abercrombie and Hooknose), which as it turns out are now my new favorite places on the planet! Both of these peaks push up past 7200 ft. elevation and the 360 degree panoramic views are beyond words! You simply have to be there.
Approaching the trek from the Pend Oreille county side, we drove 7.5 miles off the asphalt of Boundary Rd. up dirt road FR 350, (Flume Creek), to the Abercrombie trail head. The trek to Abercrombie is on well maintained, narrow and sometimes steep, single track trail. From the trail head to the summit of Abercrombie is 4.04 miles with an elevation gain of just over 2,100 ft. It is spectacular and will become an annual trek for me. The huckleberries, at this time of year, are abundant between 5,600 and 6,200 ft. elevation. The trail weaves through beautiful forest initially giving way to amazing vistas after approximately 2 miles and continue all the way to the summit. At the top we grounded our maps and were able to identify a multitude of surrounding peaks and points of interest. We were able to see clouds both form and dissipate right before us which was a special treat. After approximately 1.5 hours of hydrating and taking in some nutrition, we set our sights on Hooknose. There are no trails out to the summit of Hooknose therefore some preplanning with topo maps is a must. The ridgeline launch to Hooknose from the Abercrombie trail is less than a mile from Abercrombie summit. From the maps it appears that one could simply follow the ridgeline and navigate by sight all the way. Not the case. A GPS and some knowledge of marking your trail are crucial. The ridgeline is certainly the correct way to get there however, you will encounter steep climbs and descents all the while working through some fairly thick subalpine forest. This includes traversing uneven ground over rocky terrain. All that being said, the destination is more than worth the effort!! Near the summit there are rock cliffs that require caution but the views are amazing. Once there you'll be able to look nearly straight down to Hooknose Lake 1,100 ft. below. Again, the reward is beyond words!
I highly recommend this trek for the avid outdoor enthusiast however, prior to attempting this trip, (if targeting both mountain summits in one day), assure you're properly equipped, physically fit and understand something about wilderness navigation.
Enjoy!!