Winchester Mountain peak
Winchester Mountain rises to 6,521 ft in Cascade-Range within the Cascade Range range.
With an elevation of approximately 6,524 feet (1,989 meters), this mountain offers a challenging yet rewarding experience for mountaineers and hikers alike. The mountain is characterized by its rocky summit and expansive views of the surrounding North Cascades National Park.
During the winter season, Winchester Mountain receives a significant amount of snowfall, contributing to the region's abundant snowpack. Snow depths can vary greatly depending on the year and weather conditions, with averages ranging from 10 to 20 feet (3 to 6 meters). This makes it an ideal destination for winter sports enthusiasts, including backcountry skiers and snowshoers.
Several creeks and rivers benefit from the mountain's runoff, providing a vital water source for the surrounding area. One such notable waterway is Twin Lakes Creek, which flows down from Winchester Mountain and eventually joins the Nooksack River. The pristine alpine lakes and their vibrant turquoise waters are also a sight to behold.
In terms of history and folklore, Winchester Mountain derives its name from Colonel T.H. Winchester, an early settler in the area during the late 1800s. Legend has it that the mountain was named in his honor after he trekked to the summit and hoisted a bottle of whiskey, declaring it Winchester Mountain. This tale, although unverified, adds an intriguing touch to the mountain's allure.
Overall, Winchester Mountain presents an attractive challenge for mountain enthusiasts, offering stunning views, a significant snowpack during the winter months, and a role in the local hydrological system. Whether for adventure or appreciation of its natural beauty, this mountain is sure to captivate all who venture to its summit.
For trail conditions and access, search Wikipedia or the local land manager's site. Browse other peaks in the Cascade-Range range.
Snowpack near Winchester Mountain
Snow water equivalent and snowpack depth at SNOTEL stations near the peak. Best proxy for what's currently sitting on the summit.
| SNOTEL station | Snowpack | View |
|---|---|---|
| White Chuck Mountain | 1 in | → |
| Hozomeen Camp | 1 in | → |
| Newhalem | 212 in | → |
| Elbow Lake | 1 in | → |
| Mf Nooksack | 1 in | → |
| Elbow Lake | 1 in | → |
| Mt. Baker - Heather Meadows | 6 in | → |
Streamflow near Winchester Mountain
USGS streamgauges in the basin drained by this peak. Spring snowmelt from the summit feeds these flows.
| Gauge | Streamflow | View |
|---|---|---|
| Racehorse Creek At North Fork Road Nr Kendall | 23 cfs | → |
| Nooksack River At Everson | 2,280 cfs | → |
| Anderson Creek At Smith Road Near Goshen | 1 cfs | → |
| Nooksack River At North Cedarville | 1,700 cfs | → |
| Newhalem Creek Near Newhalem | 30 cfs | → |
| Sumas River Near Sumas | 64 cfs | → |
| Nf Nooksack River Bl Cascade Creek Nr Glacier | 789 cfs | → |
Weather Forecast
Same NOAA / yr.no feed Snoflo's iOS app uses. Watch the precipitation column -- snow at this elevation typically lags the radar signature by a few hours.
Next 5 days, hour by hour
Temperature line with weather symbols on top, snow + rain accumulation as columns, humidity as a dotted line.
5-day forecast table
Every 3 hours, broken out across temperature, snow, rain, humidity, and wind.
| Time | Condition | Temp (°F) | Snow (in) | Rain (in) | Humidity (%) | Wind (mps) | Wind dir |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Loading detailed forecast… | |||||||
15-day forecast
Daily temperatures, snow, and rain projected over the next two weeks.
What's around Winchester Mountain
Ski areas, river runs, fishing spots, campgrounds, parks, reservoirs, and boat launches within driving distance of Winchester Mountain.
Ski areas
- Crystal Mountain Resort
- Mt Timothy
- Kane Valley (Nicola Nordic Ski Club)
- Harper Mountain
- Mission Ridge Ski Area
- China Ridge (Snowpatch)
River runs
- Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie Nf/North Cascades Np To Mt. Baker Wilderness Boundary
- Mt. Baker Wilderness Boundary To Nooksack Falls Diversion Dam
- Headwaters To U.S./Canadian Border
- Nooksack Falls Diversion Dam To Nooksack Falls Power Plant
- Headwaters To North Cascades National Park Boundary
- Lower Chilliwack (The Classic)
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