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 Reporter |
Summary: The trail begins in a second growth forest and then descends to the former mill town of Robe. The trail is flat until it joins the river then steep hillsides and the results of years of erosion take over. When following along the route, you take a step back in history, as this rail-trail was instrumental in the Monte Cristo gold rush days. The land in places was so steep that tunnels were placed in frequent location along the line. Use caution when entering these tunnels. The first tunnel #6 is at approximately 1.4 miles. At 1.7 miles is tunnel #5, which is 250 ft. long and on a slight curve. Tunnel #4 was removed by the railroad and is now a cut with a rockslide at the west end. Just beyond this point is a huge rock wall built up from the river to the grade. Further along is tunnel #3 which has collapsed. This trail is on private land. Trailhead: From the Verlot Public Center (11 miles east of Granite Falls), travel west on the Mountain Loop Highway 3.9 mile to the trailhead on the left (south). (Lat:48.11 Lon:-121.86) Trail Guides for Old Robe Trail: Best Seasons: Year-Round User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Ranger Contact: Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest (800) 627-0062 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Peter Koths, who has posted 1 other hike on this site Trail Reviews Page 2 of 3 Submit your own review 
Reviewed by Harmony on 4/19/2009 A good hike!! We did this yesterday, and there were five us, two of whom were under 8. I would advise the kids to be older (at least 6 0r 7) as they soon become a drag to carry, and some spots can be sketchy. However, it is a great hike for everyone in the family to experience. We only made it to tunnel five, but it was still fun to see the old train caves and to watch the roaring river right next to you. I definitely enjoyed this hike very much! Also, I noticed people of all ages (from about 2-70) and I think it is pretty doable for all, but you have to use caution in some areas were there are potential loose rocks. Would recommend to almost everyone. 
Reviewed by WDactle on 4/6/2009 I love this hike! In response to mickey, my girlfriend, her sister and I went past all of the tunnels. 6 is the first short tunnel, 5 takes you through, you will go through four which is short and hike across rock slides to get to the rock wall. Just past the rock wall you'll see the bridge. I'm afraid of heights and it gave me a GOOD scare. Plus there is a fallen tree over it now that you have to climb over to continue. You'll continue hiking and get to tunnel 3 which is dark and closed. At this point we cut left up the hill and over tunnel 3. There is not a trail past this point. It was a blast, but stressful. Dangerous to press on past the rock wall but worth it if you're feeling daring. 5 stars.
Reviewed by mickey on 2/22/2009 My girlfriend and I love this hike, however, we have not been past tunnel 6 because there are spots where it is very narrow and dangerous. I have a question for anyone that might have gone past tunnel 5 or 6. Is it accessable? Does anyone recommend it?
Reviewed by Victoria S. on 7/12/2008 First time on the trail, 07/12/08. The weather was perfect for the hike at 80 degrees. The hike had some slippery slopes I would recommend wearing appropriate hiking boots with nice ankle support. The hike may be too steep for children in certain areas. Overall this trail offers some spectacular views of the nature and of the river the trail follows. Worth the drive from the Seattle area.
Reviewed by Tavia and Joel on 6/2/2008 My boyfriend and I enjoyed the hike very much. We made the trip yesterday. It was definitly worth it. Just some tips, don't bring kids, bring water, bring climbing shoes and clothes. That is, if you want to brave all the sketchy parts. Joel and I toughed it past tunnels 5 and 6. We didn't turn around until the bridge. Sixty foot drop on either side and trees have fallen on it so who knows how well its going to hold people. We didn't brave it because we were a tad bit dehydrated from the intense climbing. Its a work out and totally worth it!!! We enjoyed every minute of it!! Great place to get away and relax. Gorgeous views!
Reviewed by twilliams on 4/13/2008 Went up yesterday....4/12/08. The hike was beautiful, there are some sketchy places as noted previously. Words cannot describe the scenery, the tunnels are fascinating as well. Great hike, I'd recommend it to anyone.
Reviewed by matt on 2/17/2008 Definitely a great hike, the canyon is gorgeous. There definitely are some pretty sketchy parts, though, as previous reviewers have noted. You really have to watch your footing in those places or else you're in the river, which is flowing quickly and is littered with boulders and sharp rocks. Overall, though, it was well worth the drive from Seattle, and my friends and I have some fantastic pictures.
Reviewed by teamburleigh on 8/7/2007 Our kids loved this hike and the exciting story of the old railroad built along the river. Several washouts this past winter have left the trail a bit treacherous just prior to tunnel number 6. Signs are now posted stating that the trail is closed. We could see the tunnel from this point, so continued on passed the sign. We had to hold on to the youngest kids as we scrambled over rock with the rushing current of the river below us. Walking through tunnel number six was worth it. The rest of the trail that leads to tunnel number five is blocked. It is good to have a few adults along if you do this hike with kids. Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: Washington Hiking, Washington Trails, Washington Hikes, Snohomish County Hiking, Snohomish County Trails, Snohomish County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
