Robinson Creek - Middle Fork Trail #478
This trail within Pasayten Wilderness runs mostly through big timber along the river bottom with some open views in meadow avalanche chutes. From the pass one can scramble up Devil's Peak to the east, or up a small knob to the west for sweeping views of the u-shaped valley of the Middle Fork of the Pasayten River. Along the trail you may notice the ruins of several cabins. These belonged to Billy Robinson, an early days trapper after whom the drainage was named. Slate Peak is promiment to the northwest. This trail provides access and popular side trips in the central Pasayten. Ferguson and Freds lakes and Lake Doris are short side trips from Trail #478. Side trips with good views include Tatoosh Buttes Trail #485, Point Defiance Trail #471 (unmaintained and difficult to follow), and Buckskin Ridge Trail #498. Many loop trips are possible.
At a Glance
Current Conditions: | Current conditions information |
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Area Amenities: | Interpretive Site, Fee charged for some activities, Picnic tables, Toilets, Drinking water, Parking |
Fees: | Recreation pass required for parking at trailhead. (A $5/vehicle/day Northwest Forest Pass can be purchased from a self-pay station provided at the trailhead). |
Permit Info: | A free self -issue wilderness permit is required in the Pasayten wilderness (available at trailhead). |
Open Season: | Late June |
Best Season: | August-September |
Busiest Season: | August-September |
Restrictions: | No motorized or mechanized vehicles. Wilderness regulations apply. Certified weed free hay is required on national lands (proccessed grain okay) |
Closest Towns: | Winthrop, WA |
Water: | No potable water |
Restroom: | At trailhead only |
Passes: | A valid Recreation Pass required at Robinson Creek Trailhead. (A $5/vehicle/day Northwest Forest Pass can be purchased from a self-pay station provided at the trailhead). |
Operated By: | Forest Service |
Information Center: | Methow Valley Ranger District. |
General Information
Directions:From Winthrop, Washington drive 15 miles west on Highway 20, turn right onto Lost River Road, drive 7.5 miles on pavement and continue another 1.5 miles on gravel forest road 5400 to Robinson Creek Trailhead on the right side of road.
Activities
Lake and Pond Fishing
Recreation areas with activity Lake and Pond Fishing:Lake fishing in Ferguson, Fred, Doris or Buckskin lakes.
Day Hiking
Recreation areas with activity Day Hiking: See additional information under Backpacking.Backpacking
Recreation areas with activity Backpacking:This trail provides access and popular side trips in the central Pasayten. Ferguson and Freds lakes and Lake Doris are short side trips from Trail #478. Side trips with good views include Tatoosh Buttes Trail #485, Point Defiance Trail #471 (unmaintained), and Buckskin Ridge Trail #498. Many loop trips are possible.
Horse Riding
Recreation areas with activity Horse Riding: See additional information under Backpacking.Viewing Scenery
Recreation areas with activity Viewing Scenery:There are good views and open meadow areas near the pass. Side trips with good views include Tatoosh Buttes Trail #485, Point Defiance Trail #471 (unmaintained), and Buckskin Ridge Trail #498.
Amenities
Interpretive Site: | interpretive information |
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Picnic tables: | |
Fee charged for some activities: | Recreation pass self-pay station |
Parking: | with stock ramp and hitch rail |
Toilets: | at trailhead |
Drinking water: | stock water only, not potable water |