The Howlock Mountain Trail passes through open stands of lodgepole pine for the first three miles. The timber type gradually changes to true fir-mountain hemlock as the trail gains elevation. At one mile, the trail intersects with the Spruce Ridge Trail. About two miles out there is a large grassy meadow off to the left, Timothy Meadow, and shortly after hikers enter the Mt. Thielsen Wilderness. At 3.5 miles, the Thielsen Creek Trail intersects to the right which is where the last water along the trail is passed. About five miles out, good views of Mt. Bailey and Mt. Thielsen become available as open meadows become more common. At seven miles, the trail ends as it connects with the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail near timberline.

The trail gains approximately 1,880 feet of elevation and the first two miles of trail is heavily used by horses. A horse rental concession is available adjacent to the trail head during the summer. The trail is also very popular with Nordic skiers in the winter. The trail is closed to all motorized and mechanical use where trail enters Mount Thielsen Wilderness Boundary.

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