Stretching roughly 7 miles round trip with an elevation gain of about 2,200 feet, the Mud Run trail on Whitehorse Mountain in Darrington, Washington, demands respect. It’s a rugged journey through dense old-growth forest, where the earth pushes back and streams dare you to cross. The trail’s contours rise steadily, teasing glimpses of the surrounding Cascades through breaks in firs and cedars, while the underbrush whispers stories of the wild forces shaping these slopes.

From the trailhead, the first mile hooks you deep into a green cathedral of moss-draped limbs and craggy roots. The well-worn path soon turns slick, carrying the promise of mud patches that test your grip and determination—the source of the trail’s name. These sections ask for steady footing and sturdy boots that can read the trail’s subtle shifts. Water crossings appear unannounced, the creek currents nudging against your boots as they reveal the mountain’s restless spirit.

As you climb above 3,000 feet, the canopy thins to open up panoramic views that reward each laborious step. Snowfields cling stubbornly to northern slopes well into late spring, a reminder that the mountain’s pace is never rushed. Bring layers; temperatures can drop unexpectedly as the forest sheds its cover.

Hydration is essential here. The mountain offers fresh water sources, but treatment is recommended to meet safety standards. Early mornings are best to avoid the slog of afternoon wetness and to catch the fog lingering among the pines, an elusive veil that adds quiet intensity to the air.

The trail challenges both beginners and experienced hikers alike to engage with a wild, fiercely natural environment where the landscape resists easy passage. This isn’t merely a walk in the woods; it’s a practical lesson in resilience and preparation—where adventure feels earned and the forest active, not passive.

Plan carefully, respect the mountain’s rhythms, and you’ll leave with your boots dirtied, your lungs full, and your view forever etched by Whitehorse’s commanding presence.