Hall Point is a popular rocky outcrop near Truck Summit, a go-to spot for hikers chasing rewarding views. The unofficial but well-traveled trail branches off the Palouse to Cascades Trail,1 climbing the ridge that separates Hall Creek and Change Creek. Notably, this direct path was likely forged by climbers and scramblers seeking a more efficient approach into the greater Mount Washington area.2
See more trip photos here.
Hall Point + Olallie Knob at a Glance
Access: Hall Creek Trail
Round Trip: 3 miles
Elevation Range: 1240′-2600′
Essential Gear: none
GPS Track: available
Dog-Friendly: with guidance on Olallie Knob
Playlist: Afrobeats, Beats, Guitars
Overcast Start on Hall Creek Trail
The partly sunny forecast up north seemed unmotivating, so I postponed my climb and instead headed for Hall Point today. Despite a favorable forecast, overcast skies persisted. This weather reminded us how quickly Pacific Northwest conditions can change, even during reliable summer months.
Connor and I crossed Hall Creek Bridge and passed several climbing groups gathering nearby. The hidden rocky trail behind the fence climbed steadily with crowbar-reinforced steps on steeper sections. Past the one-mile mark, a small viewpoint overlooked Palouse to Cascades Bridge, Interstate 90, and ridges.
Hall Point Views and Arête Surprise
We paused at the Change Creek Vista, though the roaring creek stayed hidden below the dense trees. While clouds persisted, Hall Point offered some clearing. From the ridge, the South Fork Snoqualmie River valley appeared, with rolling terrain stretching eastward under shifting clouds.
As conditions improved, nearby summits appeared one by one. Peaks included Web Mountain, Putrid Pete’s Peak, Mailbox, Dirtybox, Dirty Harry, and Green Mountain. Leaving Hall Point, we retraced the trail down toward Olallie Knob. The initial rock arête required some balance more manageable over the top.
Olallie Knob Overlook and Forest Return
We traversed the second rock arête along the west before gaining the top. The terrain soon expanded, leading into scattered trees before reaching the overlook on Olallie Knob. The views atop the cliffs were similar to those from Hall Point. The only difference was the wooded northwest side that obstructed the landscape.
While photographing Connor, I startled a garter snake sunbathing beside its freshly shed skin. On the descent, we greeted two families walking up the trail. We also explored Hall Creek Trail; however, it quickly disappeared into brush. We then walked back to the gate after making a brief stop by the creek.
- Washington State Parks: Palouse To Cascades State Park Trail ↩︎
- hikingwithmybrother.com: Hall Point – Change Creek Trail. ↩︎