Abernathy Peak

Abernathy Peak is situated just east of the North Cascades Scenic Highway at the head of the Twisp River. Although it borders the often soggy and rain scoured North Cascades National Park, the peak has more in common with the landscape to the east. Situated beyond the major North Cascades crest, an arid climate with its correlating vegetation gives the feeling of a distant world. Abernathy’s flanks tend to be rocky, with extensive scree slopes above timberline. There is a mine near the north ridge at about 7400 feet and a cabin was once located at the 7680-foot saddle. The Scatter Lake area on the southeastern flank is a gorgeous spot in early October when the landscape shimmers with a golden coat of larch. The route is steep above timberline after Scatter Lake, but is easily visualized. The strenuous ascent culminates in a zenith of views. To the southwest, the deep valley of the Twisp River underscores Gilbert Mountain, while to the northeast are poised the craggy summits of Gardner and North Gardner Mountains. Note that car camping the night before at South Creek Campground makes this scramble a feasible 1-day trip.