1.5-miles, +920 ft
Elk Mountain has a notable 2,166 feet of prominence and a pleasant trail to near the summit.
It is a relatively long drive to the trailhead on good Forest Service Roads. Most vehicles should be able to make it with no troubles, but some clearance is helpful. This summit combines nicely with W7I/IC-172 (Green Mountain), which is a drive-up.
To reach the trailhead (beginning at the Red River Ranger Station on Hwy 222/57, drive 0.3 miles south, and turn left (east) on the “Magruder Corridor”/”Nez Perce Trail”/ FS-468. Continue 18.8 miles and turn left on the Green Mountain Road (FS-285). Follow this road another 17.4 miles north, past Windy Saddle, to the Elk Mountain Trailhead. There is good parking, a small stream, and a latrine at the Trailhead.
The trail is very well maintained, and leaves from the east side of the parking lot. Follow the trail up to where it crosses the Elk Mountain spur ridge at 7,600 feet, then walk off-trail directly to the summit. There is a summit register and nice views all around.
