Saddle Mountain is the most accessible peak in the Coast Range with high elevation wildflower meadows. These meadows are not formed by winter snowpack, as in the Olympics and Cascades alpine meadows, but by thin soils and dry summer conditions. Plant diversity is exceptionally high. The flowering season is long, lasting from March to August most years. You can hike this mountain every six weeks all season and see new species in flower with each visit. The trail begins in young alder and Douglas-fir forests, goes up into true fir stands, loose scree or talus, and then to rocky slopes and wildflower meadows.

On a clear day, in addition to the wildflowers you will be able to see many other Cascade peaks including Mount Hood, Mount Jefferson, Mount Adams, Mount Saint Helens, Mount Rainier, and the Olympic Mountains. You will also be able to see various Coast Range peaks, as well as the ocean itself which is only a few air miles away.