This hike up Granite Mountain comes with a steep price, so be prepared for a good climb to the top. Elevation gain is about 1,000 ft per mile, and should be done by those who are in good shape to handle the strain. Part of the reason people love going on this hike is the beautiful views available from the lookout point at the summit. Hikers will be able to see Mount Rainier in the distance as well as Mount Stewart and the Teanaway. 

The trail begins off the highway at the Pratt Lake trailhead. Hikers will follow this trail for about 1.2 miles until they reach a trail junction. Pratt Lake continues on the left, while Granite Mountain takes off on the right. There are switchbacks along the trail, with one of the early switchbacks giving an excellent view of steep, debris filled avalanche chute. This hike is especially dangerous in the winter and early spring, and it is highly adviced that hikers wait until the snow melts before attempting this hike as the avalanche risk is very high. 

Once past the trail junction, the Granite Mountain trail becomes narrower and rockier as hikers begin their way towards the summit. The trail is shaded, however because of the steep climb, most hikers will not feel cold but pretty warm. Switchbacks meander across the mountain, and about a mile after the junction, hikers will be at the top of the previously seen avalanche chute. There is a seasonal stream which can be used to refill water, just remember to filter. Continuing up along the trail, there will be some flatter spots through a few meadows and forests before reaching a talus slope. At this point the outlook will be in view, but there is still a difficult climb to the top. 

Overall this trail is gruelling and steep, however the views are well worth the work it takes to get to the top. There is a ranger outlook which is sometimes open to the public at the top, and makes for a great rest spot. This trail tends to get crowded on the weekends, so it might be best to go during the week.