Photos: Mailbox Peak is a rite of passage for WA's hikers | Seattle Refined

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<p>The North Bend region of Washington offers tons of trails with fantastic views, but it’s Mailbox Peak trail that’s a true testament to fitness, willpower and the stuff of legend. This “rite of passage” trail shares some of Mother Nature’s best: colorful wildflowers, dense forrest landscapes, a massive bolder field and, of course, the famed mountain-top mailbox. (Image:{ }Rachael A. Jones / Seattle Refined){ }</p>

<p>Two main trails lead to the summit. The Old Trail leads hikers to the summit quicker, at around 5.4 miles round-trip and about 740 feet in elevation gain per mile, but is riddled with challenging root systems, dense forests to navigate and a thigh-burning ascent. The New Trail, built in 2014, follows along a properly maintained, easier-on-the-knees trail, and clocks in at 11.6 miles round-trip. (Image:{ }Rachael A. Jones / Seattle Refined){ }</p>

<p>The Washington State Department of Natural Resources warning sign can be a bit ominous, but completely necessary as the trail is rated difficult with steep inclines and frequent switchbacks. (Image:{ }Rachael A. Jones / Seattle Refined){ }</p>

<p>Hang your Discover Pass on the rear view mirror and set off with a daypack filled with trail mix, ample water and a sports drink for the summit. Tip: Hiking poles are very helpful on this trail due to larger rocks and roots that punctuate the trail. (Image:{ }Rachael A. Jones / Seattle Refined){ }</p>

<p>After 15-minutes on the trail, the first switchback reveals itself leading upward into a lush, gradual incline. (Image:{ }Rachael A. Jones / Seattle Refined){ }</p>

<p>Elevation markers are affixed to trees along the trail. These little signs become motivational after 45-minutes of continuous uphill climbing. (Image:{ }Rachael A. Jones / Seattle Refined){ }</p>

<p>Other tree markers can be found along the way, some with riddles or simple quotes. A favorite is one that says, “May the Force Be With You.” (Image:{ }Rachael A. Jones / Seattle Refined){ }</p>

<p>The heavily trafficked trail is mostly quiet due to the thick forest landscape. Dramatic, downed trees with bright green moss accent the trail. (Image:{ }Rachael A. Jones / Seattle Refined){ }</p>

<p>Take in a handful of trail mix beside this tree marked “1500 ft to Summit,” which translates to elevation remaining. (Image:{ }Rachael A. Jones / Seattle Refined){ }</p>

<p>At last, the first flat clearing in miles, and an opportunity to take in the first of many scenic views. This spot is where the Old Trail converges with the New Trail. (Image:{ }Rachael A. Jones / Seattle Refined){ }</p>

<p>The tree-covered trail suddenly opens up to blue skies and a massive boulder field. At first sight, it’s hard to determine just how large – but look close and spot a few people making their way to the top (Image:{ }Rachael A. Jones / Seattle Refined){ }</p>

<p>The final stretch is 960 feet of elevation gain in a half-mile of boulder climbing. (Image:{ }Rachael A. Jones / Seattle Refined){ }</p>

<p>A domesticated ram makes the boulder field look easy. While leashed dogs are allowed on the trail, it’s not recommended due to a lack of water and strenuous trail conditions. (Image:{ }Rachael A. Jones / Seattle Refined){ }</p>

<p>Mid-way through the boulder field, a rewarding view of fluffy clouds grace the treetops and provide a sense of touching the sky. (Image:{ }Rachael A. Jones / Seattle Refined){ }</p>

<p>A large mailbox decorated with stickers, stuffed with mementos and wrapped with shirts and handkerchiefs perches on the summit. (Image:{ }Rachael A. Jones / Seattle Refined){ }</p>

<p>Mailbox Peak got its name in 1991 by hiker, Sally Pfeiffer, a trip report writer for the Washington Trail Association’s Signpost Magazine – all because the summit register was located in a large green mailbox. While this isn’t the original mailbox, due to frequent replacement, it certainly provides a picturesque view and unbeatable Instagram photo op. (Image:{ }Rachael A. Jones / Seattle Refined){ }</p>

<p>A bronze Washington Department of Natural Resources seal dated 1983 marks the rock base of the mailbox. (Image:{ }Rachael A. Jones / Seattle Refined){ }</p>

<p>The summit offers colorful wildflowers and cloud-kissed views of the North Cascade range, Mt. Rainier on a clear day, and other famous peaks. (Image:{ }Rachael A. Jones / Seattle Refined){ }</p>

<p>It offers a perfect spot to picnic with picturesque views before the downhill descent. (Image:{ }Rachael A. Jones / Seattle Refined){ }</p>

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