Rampart Ridge Southeast Peak is part of a long, craggy ridgeline in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. Situated above Lake Lillian, this peak lies just northeast of Keechelus Lake near prominent features such as Alta Mountain and Dungeon Peak. The name “Rampart Ridge,” suggested by The Mountaineers Club, aptly reflects its fortress-like appearance, characterized by dramatic cliffs and gentle eastern meadows.1
See more trip photos here.
Rampart Ridge Southeast Peak at a Glance
Access: Rampart Ridge Backdoor Trailhead (NF-4832-136)
Round Trip: 2.5 miles
Elevation Range: 3760′-5609′
Essential Gear: helmet
Route Info: Greg Henriksen
GPS Track: available
Dog-Friendly: with guidance
Playlist: Alex Kehm, Kylie Dailey
Navigating the Forest Roads
The drive on Road 4832 started smoothly on pavement, which lasted until the last of the cabins. Soon after, the road transitioned to typical gravel, featuring one sizable pothole enclosed with a safety net. After turning onto Road 136, about four miles from the freeway, the path narrowed with encroaching branches. The road then grew brushier and bumpier, with dips becoming more frequent as we continued.
The narrow road was one lane for its entire stretch, which could be problematic if encountering oncoming traffic. Apart from one open area about half a mile in from the main road, there were only a few pullouts for tight passing. Just before the junction with Road 141, a series of significant dips required careful navigation, but we otherwise managed without any issues.
A Steep Trail Toward the Lakes
The final stretch from the Road 141 fork to the end felt even narrower, likely due to the unpruned vegetation. When we started walking at 6:30, over half a dozen cars were at the compact trailhead. Judging from the frosted windshields on the vehicles, most, if not all, belonged to overnight campers. Shortly past the trailhead, we were greeted by discarded toilet paper.
Beyond the clearing and the initial shaded section, the excellent trail was as I remembered from previous visits. The path steepened near the outlet of Lake Laura, known as Rocky Run, a reliable water source. During the next 200 feet of climbing, exposed tree roots and slide alder branches provided helpful handholds. We navigated a series of tall rock steps before the trail flattened out.
Climbing to Rampart Ridge Southeast Peak
We navigated half a dozen downed trees before the incline again increased. The slope eased as we approached the trail junction for Lake Laura. Shortly afterward, we turned right at the Lake Lillian fork to head south. The path dipped briefly before traversing the large talus field below the west slope, where we soon left the beaten path.
Hugging the south edge of the rock field, we ascended pleasant heather slopes beside the forest. I put on my helmet due to loose rocks and subpar shoe traction, which proved disappointing for the steep price tag. To bypass the cliffs near 5000 feet, we hugged the headwall north into a steep gully before re-entering the trees another 300 feet higher.
Summit Views and Pesky Bugs
Below the summit, we entered a clearing with a lush heathered slope dotted with red flowering currant and wilting daisies. We then aimed straight for the visible summit block, covering the final 300 feet of elevation. Similar to Evergreen Mountain, the peak was relatively accessible, making the simple approach ideal for a day with limited time.
The mosquitoes hadn’t bothered us until we reached the talus field earlier. Thankfully, an intermittent breeze kept the worst of them at bay. The west side of the peak featured a sheer, dramatic drop-off, reminiscent of Dungeon Peak but not as high. Mount Rainier and Mount Adams stood on the horizon, while parts of Keechelus and Kachess Lakes peeked through the valleys.
A Leisurely Descent and Return
Across Box Canyon, I could see Hibox and Lobox Mountains atop Box Ridge, with Mount Margaret at the far end of this ridgeline. Since it was a relatively short climb, we stayed for over an hour to soak in the incredible panoramic views and appreciate the perfect weather. Retracing steps through the lush, heathered slope proved to be slick, requiring careful footing.
The rest of our descent through the cliffs and the rock field was uneventful. We saw three other hikers crossing the talus just before we rejoined the main beaten path. As we headed down toward the car, several more groups were making their way up the trail. Upon reaching the trailhead, we found the once-quiet parking area now lined with cars on both sides of the narrow road.
FAQ: Rampart Ridge Southeast Peak Climb
No, the climb involves class 2–3 scrambling with loose talus. It requires caution but no technical gear beyond a helmet.
The round trip is approximately 2.5 miles with about 1800 feet of elevation gain.
Yes, dogs are allowed. They should be kept under control due to steep terrain and loose rocks.
Late spring through early fall is the best time to avoid snow and enjoy stable weather.
- Wikipedia: Rampart Ridge in Kittitas County, Washington State. ↩︎