Church

BJ and Stacy accompanied me on this terrific sunny day to the old lookout site at 6000'. From there it
becomes somewhat technical. I would call this an easy scramble if it were not for one gully heading
over to the summit and the need for excitement that I suggest by taking the ridge back from the summit
to the old lookout site. This route will require some free 5.6 climbing on loose rock, but is more
enjoyable then descending back down to the scree.

You start at the Church Mt trailhead. This is a trail all the way up. Unlike the Canadian Rockies
(7500'), you break out of tree line at 5500'. The views of Mt Baker on the way up have to be the best in
the park. Once you are at the old lookout, descend down to the north scree and traverse west over to
an open notch. Transcend the southern face of the mountain for about 100 yards and then work your
way up to the ridge. You can continue on the ridge with one down climbing situation or you can take
the easy way out back on the north side of the ridge to the true summit. There is a register and
summit marker. I took the ridge back all the way and had more fun then any of the above. Up and
down, but nothing to technical for a moderate to difficult scramble. There is always exposure when
doing a route like this of course.