Little Kachess Trail #1312

The Little Kachess Trail begins at Kachess Campground and ends at Mineral Creek Trail #1331. The bridge over Box Canyon Creek on the Little Kachess Trail # 1312 has been removed. Hikers can ford the creek only during low water periods (late August- September). It is dangerous to attempt crossing at other times.

After fording Box Canyon Creek, the trail is fairly level for .25 mile. It then turns into a very rugged trail that climbs and descends frequently in an effort to avoid glaciated rock, cliffs and other obstructions. The trail parallels the shoreline of Little Kachess Lake, but only gets close to the water in a few places. Near the north end of the lake, one mile of new trail was constructed in 1989 to move the trail out of a large clearcut and put it within sight of the lake. The northern terminus of the trail is at the junction with Mineral Creek Trail 1331. Although bicycles are legal on this trail, it is extremely difficult and recommended for experts only.

At a Glance

Operational Hours:	August - September
Fees:	Trailhead parking is located in Kachess Campground. $8/vehicle/day or Northwest Forest Pass, or Federal Interagency Recreation Pass required.
Restrictions:	Hiker-only.

General Information

Directions:

From Cle Elum, travel west on I-90 for about 20 miles. Take Exit 62 and follow Kachess Lake Road for 5-1/2 miles to Kachess Campground. Go north in the campground to road’s end at the trailhead. A Forest Pass is not required for this trailhead, but there is a fee to enter the campground.

Activities

Day Hiking

The bridge which used to be located on the north end of Kachess campground has rotted and been removed. Hikers can ford the creek only during low water periods (late August- September). It is dangerous to attempt crossing at other times. Signs are posted at the junction with Mineral Creek Trail (#1331) to advise any potential down-lake hikers.