Backpacking

Backpacking Areas

• Alpine Lakes Wilderness: Okanogan-Wenatchee
• Chelan Ranger District

  WELCOME TO THE CHELAN RANGER DISTRICT

  Split by the 51 mile Lake Chelan, the Chelan Ranger District borders the Entiat Ranger District to the south along the Chelan Mountains divide and the Glacier Peak Wilderness Area and the Methow Ranger District to the north as part of the Lake Chelan- Sawtooth Wilderness Area.

  Chelan Ranger District offers unique recreational opportunities on Lake Chelan and miles of recreational trails for all ages and experience levels. There are recreation opportunities for mountain bikers, hikers, motorcyclists, backpackers, hunters, fishermen, bird watchers and more.

  Lake Chelan Boat-in and Drive-to Campground Guide and Map

  Kayaking and Canoeing Lake Chelan

  Sawtooth Backcountry - brochure and map (Methow Valley and Chelan Ranger Districts)

  Sawtooth Backcountry - map only. This is a GeoPDF which can be downloaded into phone apps such as Avenza so that you can locate yourself on the map while out on the trails. 

• Angel Staircase Trail #1259.32
• Cascade Creek Campground
• Company Creek Trail #1243
• Copper Basin Trail
• Devils Backbone Trail #1448
• Devore Creek Trail #1244
• Domke Lake, Stuart Camp, Hatchery Campgrounds
• Eagle Pass Trail #1259.12
• Emerald Park Trail #1230
• Fields Point Landing
• Fish Creek Trail #1248
• Hart and Lyman Lake Trail #1256
• Holden Ballpark Campground
• Holden Lake Trail #1251
• Hoodoo Pass Trail #1259.31
• Horton Butte Trail #1250A
• Indianhead Basin Trail #1250
• Lakeshore Trail #1247
• Lower Railroad Creek Trail #1240
• Mirror Lake Trail #1230.1
• Moore Point Campground
• Moore Point Trail #1247.1
• North Fork 25 Mile Creek Trail #1265

  Trail is 10.5 miles in length. Good trail connection between Handy Springs and Snowberry Campgrounds. There are views of Lake Chelan at higher elevations. 

• North Fork Fish Creek Trail #1248A
• North Fork Prince Creek Trail #1254
• Oval Pass Trail #1259.13
• Pacific Crest Trail- Lake Chelan S to Suiattle
• Prince Creek Campground
• Prince Creek Motorized Trail #1255.1
• Prince Creek Wilderness Trail #1255
• Refrigerator Harbor Campground
• Safety Harbor Creek Trail #1261

  This trail begins by following the old Reclamation roadbed for 3 miles. The trail begins at the end of the roadbed, winding up along Safety Harbor Creek to the junction with the Summit Trail #1259. There are campsites at the junction with Uno Peak Trail #1260. No stock feed is available along the trail. Camp sixty feet above stream level in case of flooding. This trail is maintained annually.

  Sawtooth Backcountry - brochure and map (Methow Valley and Chelan Ranger Districts)

  Sawtooth Backcountry - map only. This is a GeoPDF which can be downloaded into phone apps such as Avenza so that you can locate yourself on the map while out on the trails. 

• Safety Harbor Creek Trailhead
• South Navarre Campground
• Stormy Mtn Trail #1233
• Suiattle Pass Trail #1279
• Summer Blossom Trail #1258

  The Summer Blossom Trail begins at Grade Creek Road #8200 and ends at Deadman's Pass. The trail is open only to foot traffic and has a few steep grades. This is an excellent trail for viewing Sawtooth high country. The trail is an old sheepherders route through the basin of Summer Blossom, arriving near the summit of North Navarre Peak 7,963 feet elevation. The peak offers outstanding views from the snowy Cascades to the vast semi-arid plains of the Columbia Plateau. Appreciate the Civilian Conservation Corps trail work (rock cribbing) as you hike the ridge down to the junction with the Summit Trail, at the East Fork Prince Creek switchbacks. The trail has a few steep grades and the tread is light in some spots, due to low use. Water should be carried, but there are possible camping areas after 1.5 miles. This trail is maintained annually.

  Sawtooth Backcountry - brochure and map (Methow Valley and Chelan Ranger Districts)

  Sawtooth Backcountry - map only. This is a GeoPDF which can be downloaded into phone apps such as Avenza so that you can locate yourself on the map while out on the trails. 

• Summer Blossom Trailhead
• Summit Trail Motorized #1259.3
• Summit Trail Wilderness #1259
• Surprise Lake Trail #1249
• Uno Peak Trail #1260
• Upper Lyman Lake Trail
• Cle Elum Ranger District

  A 419,554 acre outdoor playground is closer than you think. With 200 days of sunshine, only 20 inches of rain and 80 inches of snow, recreation opportunities are endless. Whether you enjoy the serenity of an alpine lake sunset, wildflowers in spring, vibrant fall colors, or hitting the snowy trails of winter, the Cle Elum Ranger District is the place you can find it all, just an hour’s drive from the Puget Sound Metro area.

  The District stretches from its western boundary at the crest of the Cascades east to where the forest gives way to the prairies and sage steppe of Central Washington near Ellensburg. To the north are the Wenatchee Mountains, to the south, Manastash Ridge. From craggy peaks, to rolling hills, dense forests of Douglas fir and western hemlock in the west, open pine forests in the east, meadows and secluded valleys, the district has many diverse personalities.

  Recreation opportunities abound here. 400 miles of non-motorized trails, much of which lies within the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, 400 miles of trails open to motorized use, 300 are single track and 100 double track, 100 miles of groomed snowmobile trails and 21 miles of set track ski trails offer options for all trail users. The Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail is the western boundary of the district. South of I-90 it passes through dense forests and old clear cuts that offer expansive views and berry patches in the fall. North of I-90 you are treated to one of the most rugged and scenic segments of the trail between Snoqualmie Pass and Deception Pass.  Whether you are drawn to jeep trails, secluded valleys or lofty peaks, you won’t be disappointed. Three large reservoirs, each with developed boat ramps offer water sports in spring and early summer. Lake levels drop below the ramps in summer and fall as the water is sent to irrigate the vast orchards, crop and pastureland in the Kittitas and Yakima valleys. If it is camping that calls you to the forest, Cle Elum Ranger District has large developed campgrounds, small primitive campgrounds and secluded dispersed camping areas.

  An abundance of wildlife inhabit the district. Mule deer, elk, black bear, cougar, bobcat, coyote, wolves, and mountain goat are some of the bigger critters you might see. Snow shoe hare, raccoon, pine marten, squirrels, chipmunks, and wolverine also call the district home. A wide variety of birds will keep the most avid birder busy. Great horned, spotted and barred owl, red tail hawk, bald and golden eagle, ruffed and blue grouse, mountain chickadee, gray jay, Clark’s nutcracker, stellar jay, crow and raven are but a few.

  Whether you are looking for a short day hike, a drive in the woods, a picnic, a challenging day on the trails with your jeep or motorbike, mountain bike, horse or your feet, or a relaxing evening around the campfire, come visit us. 

  The two links below are for map sets of ORV trails on Cle Elum Ranger District. 

  • Cle Elum RD ORV Trails - West [PDF: 19 mb, 13 pages]
  • Cle Elum RD ORV Trails - East  [PDF: 11 mb, 10 pages]

  The maps above are large files so it is best to right-click on the link, "save" the file to your computer and then open it with Acrobat.

• Bean Creek Trail #1391.1
• Beverly Campground
• Beverly Turnpike Trail #1391
• Big Creek Trail #1341
• Big Goat Trail #1304.1
• Blazed Ridge Trail #1333
• Blowout Mountain Trail #1318
• Boulder-De Roux Trail #1392
• Camp Creek Trail #4W305
• Cathedral Pass Trail #1345
• Cle Elum Ridge Trail #1326
• Cooper River Trail #1311
• Corral Creek Trail #1340.1
• County Line Trail #1226
• Davis Peak Trail #1324
• De Roux Spur Trail #1392.1
• Deception Pass Trail #1376
• Divide Trail #4W311
• Domerie Peak Trail #1308
• Drop Creek Spur Trail #1371.1
• Dutch Miller Gap Trail #1362
• Easton Ridge Trail #1212
• Elk Trap Springs Trail #1319
• Elsnor Mine Trail #1392.8
• Escondido Lake Trail #1320
• Esmeralda Basin Trail #1394
• First Creek Trail #1374
• Fishhook Flat Trail #1378
• Fortune Creek Jeep Trail #4W301
• Fortune Creek Miners Trail
• French Cabin Creek Trail
• Frost Jeep Trail #4W310
• Frost Mountain Lookout Trail #1366.1
• Frost Mountain Trail #1366
• Goat Peak Trail #1304
• Gooseberry Flat Trail #1227
• Granite Creek Trail #1326.1
• Grass Camp Trail #1219
• Greek Creek Basin Trail #1321.2
• Grouse Spring Trail #1373.1
• Guard Station Trail #4W324
• Hawkins Mountain Mines Trail #4W304
• Hereford Meadows Trail #1207
• Hidden Gulch Trail #4W320
• High Creek Trail #1354
• Hole In The Rock Trail #4W334
• Howard Creek Trail #1372
• Howson Creek Trail #1349
• Hoyt Trail #1347
• Ice Water Loops Trail #1370
• Indian Creek Trail #1364.3
• Ingalls Way Trail #1390
• Iron Bear Trail #1351
• Iron Peak Trail #1399
• Johnson Medra Trail #1383
• Jolly Creek Trail #1355
• Jolly Mountain Trail #1307
• Jungle Creek Trail #1383.1
• Kachess Ridge No Name Ridge Trail #1315
• Keenan Meadow Trail #1386
• Knox Creek Trail #1315.1
• Lake Ann Trail #1226.2
• Lake Lillian Trail #1332
• Lake Margaret Trail #1332.1
• Lake Michael Trail #1336
• Lake Vicente Trail #1365
• Lemah Meadow Trail
• Little Creek Basin Trail #1334
• Little Joe Lake Trail #1330.1
• Little Kachess Trail #1312
• Little Salmon La Sac Trail #1325
• Longs Pass Trail #1229
• Lost Rim Trail #4W307.1
• Manastash Lake Trail #1350
• Manastash Ridge Trail #1388
• Manastash Ridge Trail #4W306
• Middle Fork Teanaway Trail #1393
• Mill Gulch Trail #4W326
• Mill Ridge Trail #4W326.1
• Miller Peak Trail #1379
• Mine To Market Trail #4W305
• Mineral Creek Trail #1331
• Mirror Lake Trail #1302
• Moonshine Lake Trail
• Mount Catherine Trail #1348
• Mount Clifty Trail #1321.1
• Naneum Meadows Trail #1389
• Naneum Rim Trail #1234
• Naneum Wilson Trail #1371
• North Scatter Creek Trail #1328.1
• Pacific Crest Tr North - Snoqualmie Pass Trailhead
• Pacific Crest Tr South - Snoqualmie Pass Trailhead
• Pacific Crest Trail #2000 (Snoqualmie Pass North)
• Pacific Crest Trail #2000 (Snoqualmie Pass South)
• Paddy-Go-Easy Pass Trail #1595.1
• Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail #1382
• Paris Creek Trail #1393.1
• Peggy's Pond Trail #1375
• Pete Lake Tie
• Pete Lake Trail #1323
  It’s 4 miles to Pete Lake, and the trail has a gentle grade for most of its length, with occasional steep stretches. For the first 2.5 miles, it heads up the valley floor through old-growth forest, sometimes crossing small creeks. Mountain bikes are prohibited beyond the wilderness boundary at the 2.5 mile point. The trail intersects Tired Creek Trail 1317 at 1.25 miles and then Pete Lake Tie Trail 1323.1. The latter trail zigzags uphill for 0.5 mile to Forest Road 4616 and forms part of a loop route for mountain bikes, (which are prohibited beyond the nearby Alpine Lakes Wilderness boundary on 1323). The main trail continues up valley past the wilderness boundary and in 2 miles comes to Pete Lake and the junction with Waptus Pass Trail 1329. The trail goes around the north shore of the lake and heads uphill through bluffs and forest for 1.3 miles to a junction with Lemah Meadow Trail 1323.2, which takes off to the right (north) and uphill for about 1 mile to Lemah Meadows and a junction with the Pacific Crest Trail 2000.6. The main trail heads south, crossing Lemah Creek ford, and winds uphill through forest and small hills for 0.75 mile to its junction with Pacific Crest Trail 2000. 
• Polallie Ridge Trail #1309
• Pole Trail #4W336
• Quick Creek Camp Trail
• Rachel Lake Trail #1313

  The Rachel Lake Trail begins at Forest Road 4930 and ends at Lake Lillian Trail #1332. This is a hiker only trail that accesses the Alpine Lakes Wilderness.

  Rachel Lake Trail has a fairly gentle grade for the first 3 miles as it follows the north side of Box Canyon Creek along the valley bottom. The trail passes through old-growth forest and brushy avalanche chutes. At the head of the valley, the trail begins a steep 1-mile climb to Rachel Lake. From the flat bench around Rachel, the trail climbs approximately another mile to the Rampart Lakes basin. Due to the large number of people that visit this area, campfires are prohibited within 0.5 mile of Rachel Lake and everywhere above 5000 feet. At Ramparts (and at other subalpine and alpine areas), the plant life is fragile and has suffered damage from hikers. In order to repair past damage, revegetation and rehabilitation efforts continue in this area as funding allows and with the help of volunteers. You can help this project by staying on the main trails and resting only on rocks and logs adjacent to the trail. Your cooperation can help preserve the health and remarkable alpine beauty of this area.

• Ragan Spur Trail 1354.1
• Red Mountain Trail #1330
• Robin Lakes Trail #1376.1
• Salmon La Sac Campground
• Salmon La Sac Trailhead
• Sasse Mountain Trail #1340
• Scatter Creek Trail #1328

  The Scatter Creek Trail begins at Forest Road 4330 and ends at Fish Eagle Pass. This trail accesses the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Area.

  Trail heads east from the trailhead, climbs steadily with numerous switchbacks, following the south side of Scatter Creek. Past the junction with County Line Trail 1226.2, it goes through several large meadows and into the upper basin of Scatter Creek and to its end at Fish Eagle Pass on the county divide. The trail can be difficult to find in the upper reaches of the basin. For the last half mile up to the pass, there are some extremely steep and rocky sections which may be impassable to stock.

• Skookum Basin Trail #1393.2
• Snowshoe Ridge Trail #1368
• South Fork Boulder Trail #1392.7
• South Fork Manastash Trail #1386.1
• South Fork Taneum Trail #1367

  The South Fork Taneum Trail begins at Forest Road 3300 and ends at North Fork Taneum Trail #1377.

• Spade Lake Trail #1337
• Spectacle Lake Trail #1306
• Spinola Meadow Trail #1396
• Stafford Creek Trail #1359

  Trail begins at Stafford Creek trailhead and ends at the junction with Cascade Creek Trail # 1217 at Navaho Pass. This trail accesses Alpine Lakes Wilderness Area.

  From the road, the trail goes uphill through forest along the right bank of Stafford Creek and is moderately steep. At the 3 mile point, it turns west with the valley and climbs up through meadows and scattered trees below Navaho Peak. Just past a large meadow, there is a junction with Standup Trail 1369. From there, the trail takes a right and switchbacks uphill through rocky areas with sparse trees. It then crosses a large bare rocky area and switchbacks a couple of more times through trees and meadows before reaching the ridgetop. From there, one has good views of the surrounding country, including the Stuart Range to the north. The trail continues down to Ingalls Creek as trail 1217 on the Wenatchee River Ranger District. Please obey all wilderness regulations. Water may be scarce later in the season on the upper portion of the trail.

• Stafford Creek Trailhead
• Standup Trail #1369
• Stirrup Lake Trail #1338
• Table Mountain Trail #1209
• Taneum Ridge Trail #1363
• Teanaway Ridge Trail #1364
• Thorp Creek Trail #1316
• Tired Creek Trail #1317
• Trail Creek Trail #1322
• Tripod Flat Trail #4W307
• Waptus Burn Trail #1329.3
• Waptus Pass Trail #1329
• Waptus River Trail #1310
• Way Creek Trail #1235
• Wells Meadow Trail #4W328
• West Fork Teanaway Trail #1353
• Wildcat Gulch Trail #4W323
• Wilson Creek Trail #1387
• Yellow Hill Trail #1222
• Entiat Ranger District

  The Entiat Ranger District is a tapered slice of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, located in the more arid eastern edge of the Cascade Mountains. It extends from the Chelan Mountains in the northeast to the Entiat Mountains in the west.  The Entiat River Valley splits the Entiat Mountains from the Chelan Mountains, with the Columbia River flowing to the south and the Glacier Peak Wilderness Area standing majestically to the north. The landscape is dominated by wildfire ecology. Many areas of the Entiat Ranger District are excellent to observe examples of forest restoration, after large wildfires have occurred. Elevations range between 800 to more than 9,000 feet. The total acreage is 272,101 acres, which includes the Glacier Peak Wilderness Area at 25,557 acres.

  High-quality recreation of all types exists in the Entiat Ranger District. The broad range of campgrounds and hiking trails provide access into relatively undeveloped zones of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest that are excellent for hiking and fishing in solitude. Deep in the Glacier Peak Wilderness Area, at the end of the Entiat River Trail you can observe the last remaining remnants of the once massive Entiat Glacier. The glacier still clings to the impressive Entiat headwall, home to three 9,000’ peaks: Mt. Maude, Seven Finger Jack and Mt. Fernow. The Entiat Ranger District is also home to one of the nation’s most extensive multiple-use trail systems. This beloved trail system parallels lush alpine meadows, passes with pristine mountain lakes and climbs to lofty summits with breathtaking views of the wild North Cascade Range. Much of this trail system can be traveled by off-road motorcycles, mountain bikes, horses or hiking. 

  The Entiat Ranger District is also part of a larger success story occurring on the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. Proper land management practices have made the ranger district an amazing place for viewing a wide variety of wildlife. This includes elusive species like wolverine, moose, deer, bear, eagles, salmon and steelhead that frequent the Entiat Ranger District.

  Entiat River Road Mileage chart -- shows distance to campgrounds and road junctions from Highway 97A.

• 45 Mile Sheep Drive Trail #1432
• Angle Peak Trail #1444
• Anthem Creek Trail #1435
• Billy Creek Trail #1416
• Blue Creek Trail #1426
• Butte Creek Trail #1440
• Cool Creek Trail #1431
• Cougar Mountain Viewpoint Trail
• Cougar Ridge Trail #1418
• Cow Creek Trail #1404
• Ducan Hill Viewpoint Trail
• Duncan Hill Trail #1434
• Emerald Park Trail #1230 - Entiat RD
• Entiat River Trail #1400

  The Entiat River Trail begins at the end of Forest Service Road 5100 near Cottonwood Campground and ends at Glacier Camp within Glacier Peak Wilderness.  At 4 miles from the trailhead you enter the Wilderness. Bikes and motorized vehicles are prohibited within Wilderness.

  This is an excellent river grade trail that goes to the head of the Entiat Valley. This trail provides access to many side trails that lead to popular fishing and hunting areas. There is ample horse feed in the Entiat Meadow area at 10.5 miles in. 

• Entiat River Trailhead
• Four Mile Ridge Trail #1445
• Garland Peak Trail #1408
• Hi Yu Trail #1403
• Hunters Trail #1417
• Ice Creek Trail #1405
• Ice Lakes Trail #1405.1
• Jimmy Creek Trail #1419
• Klone Peak Trail #1427
• Lake Creek Trail #1443

  This trail provides a loop opportunity with Angle Peak, Devils Backbone and Four Mile Ridge Trails. Trail starts from Lake Creek Trailhead on Entiat Valley Road #5100 and ends at Devils Backbone Trail #1448. Rated MORE DIFFICULT for motorbikes.

• Lake Creek Trailhead - Entiat
• Larch Lakes Spur Trail
• Larch Lakes Trail #1430
• Lost Lake Trail #1421
• Mad River Trail #1409

  The Mad River Trail begins at Pine Flat Campground and follows the Mad River for 15 miles to Maverick Saddle, where it connects to the Upper Mad River Trail 1409.1

  The trail follows the Mad River through a wild and very scenic area. High water in the spring is often over the trail in several locations. The Upper Mad River Trail #1409.1 has a seasonal closure to bikes and stock. 

  Chiwawa, Mad River, Entiat, Chelan Trail Map

• Mad River Trail #1409.1 (Upper)

  This trail has a seasonal closure to horses, motorbikes and mountain bikes mid-October through mid-July. Current conditions can be found here.

  The upper Mad River Trail begins at Maverick Saddle and ends at the junction of Trail #1429 and Trail #1408.  The upper Mad River has a seasonal closure in place.  This trail is closed to stock, mountain bikes and motorcycles until posted.  The trail will be posted open when the snow melts and the trail dries.  This date varies from year to year.  Contact the Entiat Ranger Station for the latest conditions at 509 784-4700

  This trail offers access to the Mad Lake and Blue Creek areas, including four lakes and many high elevation meadows. The seasonal closure usually ends around mid-July, depending upon trail conditions. The area one-quarter mile on each side of the trail is closed to off trail travel by motorbikes and mountain bikes. 

  The annual seasonal closure is to protect natural resources, minimize damage to trails, and maintain quality trail systems. The seasonal closure protects trails from damage caused by wheeled and stock travel on muddy trails. When closed, the trails are open to hikers only. Trails are usually opened to wheeled and stock travel in mid July.

  Chiwawa, Mad River, Entiat, Chelan Trail Map

• Mad River Trailhead - Upper
• Middle Tommy Trail #1424

  The Middle Tommy Trail begins at Forest Service Road 5100, Lake Creek Trailhead and ends at Blue Creek Trail #1426. This trail has a dangerous ford at Tommy Creek early in the season during peak runoff.

  This trail offers access to the Blue Creek area from the Entiat Valley. This trail ties into the Blue Creek Trail #1426 which has a seasonal closure to motorbikes, mountain bikes and horses until mid-July. 
   

• Middle Tommy Trailhead
• Myrtle Lake Trail #1404a
• North Fork Entiat River Trail #1437

  The North Fork Entiat River Trail begins at the end of Forest Service Road 5606 and ends at Pyramid Mtn Trail #1433. Lower areas of the trail burned in the Pyramid Fire 2012. Use caution when traveling through areas of burned trees and snags. Good river grade trail for 7 miles. There are several small snow slide meadows with horse feed above mile post 4.

• North Fork Entiat Trailhead
• North Tommy Trail #1425

  The North Tommy Trail begins at the end of Forest Service Road 5605 and ends at Blue Creek Trail #1426. Offers access to Blue Creek and Mad River area trails.

  The trail ties into Blue Creek Trail #1426 which has a seasonal closure to motorbikes, mountain bikes and horses until mid-July or later. 
   

• North Tommy Trailhead
• Pomas Creek Trail #1453
• Pond Camp Trail #1409.2
• Pugh Ridge Trail #1438
• Pyramid Creek Trail #1439
• Pyramid Mountain Trail #1433

  This is a scenic high elevation trail. Horse feed and water are available along most of the entire route. There is a steep segment from Pyramid Viewpoint Trail #1441 to Pyramid Creek Trail #1439. The trail runs from Big Hill Road #5900 to Emerald Park Trail #1230.1 within Glacier Peak Wilderness. Rated MORE DIFFICULT for pack and saddle stock.

• Pyramid Viewpoint Trail #1441
• Shetipo Trail #1429
• South Tommy Trail #1423
• Steliko Ridge Trail #1454
• Three Creeks Trail
• Three Creeks Trail (Lower)
• Tyee Ridge Trail #1415
• Glacier Peak Wilderness: Okanogan-Wenatchee
• Goat Rocks Wilderness: Okanogan-Wenatchee
• Henry M. Jackson Wilderness: Okanogan-Wenatchee
• Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness
• Methow Valley Ranger District

  With its big valleys, open wildspaces, high ridges and beautiful rivers, the Methow Valley Ranger District's 1.3 million acres extends from near the town of Twisp Washington to the crest of the Cascade Mountains in the Pasayten Wilderness.  Alpine lakes are a hideaway for anglers while diverse wilderness awaits explorers of all types.  There are bassalt formations for rock climbers and winter sports opportunities abound. 

  The highest peak is Jack Mountain at 9,066 feet, with many other peaks above 7000 feet.  The Methow Ranger District offers hundreds of miles of trails with a hiking season that averages from June through October.  Some trails are open to motorcycles and mountain bikes, however, no mechanized vehicles are permitted within Pasayten or Lake Chelan Sawtooth Wilderness Areas.

  During summer months, The North Cascades Scenic Highway 20 provides a direct link to the west side of Washington State, enticing both motorized and non motorized travelers to make the scenic trip.  An Overlook at Washington Pass gives a spectacular view of massive Liberty Bell Mountain (7790 elevation) and Early Winters Spires. The highway is closed during the winter months.

  Methow Valley Ranger District Recreation / Roads Report

  Prescribed Fires Information

• Albert Camp Trail #375

  This 8.5 mile trail travels into the Pasayten Wilderness and is a non-motorized trail that is rated as more difficult.
  This trail travels for 2.5 miles through lodgepole pine on the Loomis State Forest then continues into the Pasayten Wilderness through Deer Park, an open hillside with scenic views to the south. Trail continues through Albert Camp to the top of Horseshoe Mountain with panoramic views of Horseshoe Basin and surrounding peaks. At Horseshoe Basin the trail ties into the Boundary Trail #533. The last reliable water source until Horseshoe Basin is available at the Wilderness boundary.

• Andrews Creek Trail #504

  The trail starts steep then gently ascends the river bottom into the Pasayten Wilderness. The beginning 12 miles burned in 2003 wildfire, with little shade available before Andrews Pass. The most northern portion of the trail burned in 2017 wildfire. Many snags along the trail could come down in windy weather in the burn area. The 16 mile trail ends in the rolling upland meadow country of the Spanish Camp area at junction with Boundary trail #533. The Remmel-Spanish Camp area is very popular with horse users as there is plenty of grazing. From Spanish camp there are miles of open meadow country to wander in. There are many good camp sites in the large area between Bald and Amphitheater Mountains to establish a base camp. Water is available along trail. Trail is cleared of down trees annually after snow melt out.

• Andrews Creek Trailhead
• Basin Creek Trail #360
• Billy Goat Pass/Eightmile Pass Loop Trail
• Blue Lake Trail #314

  This hike offers beautiful views of Cutthroat Peak, Early Winters Spires, and Liberty Bell Mountain. The lake is a deep turquoise blue with a backdrop of towering rock walls. This is a classic fall color hike in late September - early October when the hills are painted red and gold.

  After leaving the parking lot the trail parallels the road for a short distance then begins to climb up hill in big timber. The trail branches at about 1.5 miles, the left trail leads to climbing routes up Liberty Bell Mountain. Hikers should stay on the main trail. The trail varies from heavy timber to scattered larch near the lake. 

  Print a description of trail with elevation profile and sketch map.

• Boundary Trail #533

  This trail is in the Pasayten Wilderness. From its eastern terminus it travels 13 miles on the Tonasket Ranger District before crossing over to the Methow Valley District to the west. The eastern section of the  trail is an easy trail for all hikers or horseback riders. The trail begins at the Irongate Trailhead continuing to Sunny Pass, around Horseshoe Basin to just west of Teapot Dome. Many fantastic scenic views of the surrounding mountains and meadows are evident along the trail. Plentiful water is available all season long. The Northwest Forest Pass is required at the Irongate Trailhead.

  Past Teapot Dome the trail continues on the Methow Valley Ranger District for another 60 miles before it ends at the junction with the Pacific Crest Trail #2000. Junctions with the Tungsten Mine Tr. #534, the Chewuch Tr. #510, the Andrews Crk Tr. #504, the Larch Crk Tr. #502, the Middle Fork Pasayten Tr. #478, and the Pacific Crest Trail #2000 make various loop trips possible with portions of the boundary trail. The section between Irongate trailhead and Peeves Pass is maintained annually and the western section of the trail is maintained occasionally. Many Scenic views along the trail and water available for portions, though several stretches are dry later in the season and water should be carried. The Cathedral pass and lakes area is particularly popular and usually snow-free by early to mid July. The popularity and heavy use, however, has been particularly hard on the area. Please try to minimize the impact of your campsites and avoid camping at the lakes; when riding to the lakes try to tie up before getting there and walk for the last 1/2 mile. This is important at Upper Cathedral Lake which is delicate and already seriously damaged from heavy use in the past. 

• Iron Gate Trailhead
• Buckskin Ridge Trail #498

  Mostly a ridge trail that alternates between subalpine forest and above timberline zones. The trail elevation varies as it passes two lakes and crosses two passes before descending to the Pasayten River. There is limited parking at the Slate Pass Trailhead. The trail route is mostly above timberline and offers many views. At about 0.5 mile, there is a cutt-off trail to the Robinson Creek-Middle Fork Trail #478, making loop trips possible via both the Middle Fork and West Fork drainages.

• Burch Mountain Trail #538
• Cady Pass Trail #475
• Castle Pass Trail #749
• Cathedral Driveway Trail #510A

  This 2 mile trail begins at the Chewuch Trailhead and is in the Pasayten Wilderness. The junction with the Windy Creek Trail #362 is approximately half way down the trail. The Cathedral Driveway Trail #510A ends at the junction with the Chewuch Trail #510. Most of the trail is steep as it descends to the Chewuch River and is rated most difficult, but allows good scenic views up and down the Chewuch River drainage and surrounding mountains. Stock handlers should be experienced. Water is available along the trail.

• Cedar Creek Trail #476

  Because of its low elevation this trail is one of the first trails to open up in the spring. Hike a gentle forested sidehill climb through big fir and spruce and occasional stands of cedar trees. Reach the falls in 1.7 miles. The falls are below the trail so use caution as the area around the falls is quite precipitous and there are no fences or barriers. Cedar Creek pours from pool to pool, then drops 50 to 60 feet in a series of falls. The trail continues 7.5 miles beyond the falls to Abernathy Pass, were it enters the Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness and ends at North Creek Trail #413. Trail beyond the falls is not regularly maintained. Bicycles are not allowed inside wilderness area.

• Cedar Creek Trailhead
• Chewuch Trail #510

  This is a scenic valley trail within Pasayten Wilderness that follows the river grade mostly in lodgepole pine. The last 2 miles climb into subalpine and meadow areas. This was a major stock route into the Remmel-Cathedral area. This trail is used to access the popular Four Point Lake and Tungsten Mine areas. From this trail one can also reach the Horseshoe Basin area via Basin Creek Trail #360 or the Cathedral Driveway to the Long Swamp Road. Many side trips are possible from the Remmel-Cathedral areas. The beginning 5 miles of this trail burned over in a 2001 wildfire. Many snags along the trail could come down in windy weather. The Remmel and Cathedral lakes area has long been popular with horseback travelers. But the popularity and heavy use has been particularly hard on the area. The same popular camps are used over and over, resulting in large trampled areas, damaged trees, sanitation problems, and continuing enlargement of camps. Lakeside camps have been particularly damaged. Whenever you can, try to avoid already heavily used areas and find more secluded, off-trail camps. Avoid camping at the lakes; when riding to the lakes try to tie up before getting there and walk for the last 1/2 mile. This is important at Upper Cathedral Lake which is delicate and already seriously damaged from heavy use in the past. This popular trail is maintained annually after the winter snow melts out.

• Thirtymile Trailhead
• Clutch Creek Trail #343
• Coleman Ridge Trail #505
• Cooney Lake Trail #434
• Copper Glance Trail #519

  This steep hike to an emerald green lake was significantly impacted by the 2018 McLeod Mt fire and will continue to be as the dead snags fall each season. 

  The first part of the trail follows the old jeep trail that  provides access to the Copper Glance mining claimants. At 1.6 miles the jeep trail ends and Copper Glance Trail begins. The trail is steep and rocky in places and several streams must be forded. Not recommended for stock as an old bridge collapsed and there is not a good crossing for stock. Hikers need to use caution when crossing during high water.

  From the mine, the trail crosses two meadows, beautifully flowered in early summer, before re-entering an intensely burned forest at 2.3 miles from the trailhead.  After a short steep climb and trek through a boulder field, the unburnt lake basin is reached at 3.1 miles from the trailhead.  Limited parking space at trailhead.

• Copper Glance Trailhead
• Copper Pass Trail #426
• Corral Lake Trail #502C
• Crater Creek Trail #416

  Crater Creek Trail is popular for hikers, horseback riders, and mountain bike trail users. The trail stays close to the creek as it climbs up through a series of Ice Age basins to Crater Lake, surrounded by subalpine forest and wet meadows. Last 0.75 mile is mostly level with good views. Horse camp is 0.25 mile from lake. Trail is open to hikers, horses and mountain bikes (closed to motorcycles). Bicycles and hikers yield to horses when meeting on the trail.

  Sawtooth Backcountry - brochure and map (Methow Valley and Chelan Ranger Districts)

  Sawtooth Backcountry - map only. This is a GeoPDF which can be downloaded into phone apps such as Avenza so that you can locate yourself on the map while out on the trails. 

• Crater Creek Trailhead
• Crystal Lake Trail #517

  This trail is no longer maintained, since it burned over in  a 2003 wildfire. This long side hill and valley trail, was mostly in timber  within the Pasayten Wilderness. This trail goes to Crystal Lake, a beautiful alpine lake, and there are two other lakes nearby without trail access requiring cross-county travel. This would be a good trail for experienced hikers desiring solitude as there are many, many down trees on the trail and parts of the trail have been washed out. This trail is impassable to stock and is challenging for hikers. 

• Crystal Trailhead
• Cutthroat Creek Trail #483

  The trail crosses a bridge over Cutthroat Creek and begins a gentle uphill climb to a trail junction at 1.7 miles. The left trail leads to Cutthroat Lake in 0.25 mile. From the junction the trail gains 1900 feet in the next 3.8 miles to the pass where it meets the Pacific Crest Trail.  Mountain goats are often seen near the pass. See beautiful alpine lake views and for those who wish great mountain views will enjoy looking out at the towering rugged peaks from the pass.  There are beautiful wildflowers in July and August followed by the spectacular fall gold colors of alpine larches and red colors of huckleberry bushes. Water maybe scarce beyond the lake trail junction later in the summer. Be sure to fill water bottles before going onto the pass.

• Cutthroat Trailhead
• Dean Creek Trail #456
• Deer Park Trail #341
• Devils Ridge Trail #752
• Diamond Jack Trail #514
• Drake Creek Trail #502.1
• Driveway Butte Trail #481

  The beginning of the trail follows an old skid road uphill for the first half mile then becomes more of a trail as it heads up towards a small pass. From the pass at 2.2 miles to the open meadows at 4.0 miles, the trail is within the 2003 Needle Creek Fire perimeter.  The subsequent brush growth and continued downed snags can make travel difficult. The trip to the top can be dry in the middle of the summer season, but the views are well worth the work. Silver Star Mountain and the Early Winters area are among the many views from the summit, which was once a lookout tower site. Specific difficulties: Both USGS and Green Trails maps show a trail leading down the north side of the Driveway Butte to the Methow River Trail. This was part of the old Pasayten sheep driveway and was abandoned many years ago. This north side trail is difficult to follow and is non-existent in places.

• Driveway Butte Trailhead
• Dry Creek Pass Trail
• Eagle Creek Trail #410

  This trail provides access to Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness and is a good alternative to more popular lake trails, with good meadow grazing for stock using hobbles instead of tying stock to trees, which results in damage to roots of trees. The trail on the hillside above Eagle Creek is through forest most of the way. At 1.5 miles there is a junction with the Oval Creek Trail #410A.  At 5 miles an unmaintained trail leads to Silver Lake. Nice meadow basin with scattered subalpine trees at about 6 miles, then a short section takes you to the pass. The views from the pass are one of the finest in the Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness, with Glacier Peak the dominating mountain and view from the pass reveals more of the North Cascades from an elevation of 7710 feet.

• Eagle Creek/Oval Trailhead
• Eagle Lakes Trail #431
• Early Winters Trail #522
• East Creek Trail #756

  Note that this trail is seldom maintained. From the southeast end of the parking lot follow a trail winding down to a ford of Granite Creek (bridge is no longer there). The first mile climbs up through timber to a boulder field with a good view. This trail has many down trees, impassable to stock. The trail re-enters timber and ascends the East Creek drainage, entering meadow areas south of Mebee Pass.

• East Creek Trailhead
• East Fork Buttermilk Trail #420

  The trail follows an old road bed and enters Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness after about one mile. Then the trail crosses the creek at 2 miles. Parts of the road have been reclaimed by mountain alder and can be brushy in a few short sections. The wide clearing for the road continues for another 2 miles, and then becomes a trail. The trail traverses lodgepole pine and subalpine fir forest to nearly the pass. Near the pass, some remnant sedge meadows give way to a talus-choked basin to Hoodoo Pass.

  The beginning of this route was a scheme to reach Stehekin and the gold fields. It's an easy route up until the last mile to the pass, which is strenuous. This forested hike is cool during the hot summer, with limited views until near the pass. Hoodoo Pass and Hoodoo Basin, south of the area, are brilliant, as the subalpine larch trees turn golden with the shorter days of autumn.

  The Hoodoo Basin Trail intersects with the Chelan Summit Trail at 1.3 miles.

  Specific Hazards/Difficulties: It is extremely wet and hard on stock to use in the spring.

• East Fork Buttermilk Trailhead
• East Fork Pasayten Trail #451
• Easy Pass Trailhead
• Eightmile Pass/Billy Goat Pass Loop Trail
• Eightmile Ridge Trail
• Falls Creek Trail #518
• Ferguson Lake Trail #474A
• Fire Creek Trail #561
• Foggy Dew Campground
• Foggy Dew Ridge Trail #438
• Foggy Dew Trail (Section 1) #417

  Sawtooth Backcountry multiple use trail brochure with map showing which trails are open to hikers, horses, mountain bikes and motorcycles.  Quads are too wide for these trails.

  The trail parallels the creek, staying on the north side, starting off traveling through ponderosa pine and Douglas fir forest. The forest changes to lodgepole pine about 2.5 miles and again to subalpine-lodgepole pine mix at bout 3.5 miles to the end of the route. The trail is fairly flat most of the distance, but is rocky 3.5 miles to its end. At 5 miles the trail joins with the Martin Creek Trail #429 (right fork) and Foggy Dew Trail Section II  #417A (left fork) traveling into Merchants Basin.

  Sawtooth Backcountry - brochure and map (Methow Valley and Chelan Ranger Districts)

  Sawtooth Backcountry - map only. This is a GeoPDF which can be downloaded into phone apps such as Avenza so that you can locate yourself on the map while out on the trails. 

• Foggy Dew Trailhead
• Foggy Dew Trail (Section 2) #417A
• Hart's Pass Campground
• Hidden Lakes Trail #477

  This is a heavily traveled route into a string of popular fishing lakes.  The trail was totally burned over in the 2017 Diamond Creek Fire, leaving it largely exposed and offering no shade for hikers. At Hidden Lakes there is a junction with the Tatoosh Buttes Trail #485 leading steeply to high open meadow country. Since there is no grazing at Hidden Lakes, this is a common destination for stock users.  Past the junction with Tatoosh Buttes Trail (#485), trail #477 has not been maintained in many years.

  The string of lakes are interesting in that there is actually a pass between Middle and Big Hidden lakes with Big Hidden draining north to Canada and the rest of the lakes draining south via Lost River to the Methow. Lost River can be reached by taking a side path about 100 yards south of Diamond Creek. This steep 0.25 mile path reaches scenic meadows and sand bars along the river.

  Hikers can make loop trips to the Sheep Mountain area by using the East Fork Pasayten Trail #451 over Dollar Watch Pass or turning up McCall Gultch Trail #548 or the Boundary Trail #533 over Bunker Hill (there trails were burned over in 2006 burn and are impassable to stock).  Larch Creek Trail #502 takes you back to the Billy Goat Trailhead.

• Billy Goat Trailhead
• Holman Creek Trail #472A
• Jackita Ridge Trail #738

  NOTE: The Canyon Creek Bridge, on Jackita Ridge Trail #738 was destroyed by a tree which fell across the bridge. This impacts access to the popular Devil’s Dome loop (shared loop with North Cascades National Park).  By fall (or mid-summer possibly), hikers should be able to ford across the creek, but normally this creek runs very high and would be a difficult and dangerous ford now and into mid-summer.

  After the long, steep initial climb in big timber, the trail follows ridge and sidehills mostly above timberline. Steep up and down into little basins. This trail offers many views of the western Pasayten Wilderness including spectacular views of Crater Mountain and Jack Mountain. Since the trail is mostly at or above timberline, there are many open ridges to walk. This trail is often used as part of the popular Devil's Dome loop, following Devil's Ridge Trail #752 to Ross Lake and down the Eastbank trail to return to the trailhead. There are camps with horse feed at McMillan Park, Devil's Park and Devil's Pass. The trail beyond Devil's Park should be considered difficult for stock due to tread slippage on steep hillsides. This trail usually melts out later than most trails in the Wilderness.

• Canyon Creek Trailhead
• Lake Ann / Maple Pass Loop Trail #740

  This trail offers a challenging loop beginning in a heavily timbered area. The first mile is an easy hike and soon passes through a large avalanche meadow and more timber to junction with the side trail to Lake Ann.  At Heather Pass there is a faint trail leading off towards Lewis lake and a possible side trip for experienced hiker and route finder.  Wildflowers are beautiful in July and August and the fall colors created by golden alpine larch and red huckleberries bushes are spectacular. Snowmelt sometimes lingers into mid July, making it difficult to follow trail. The hike beyond to Heather Pass and Maple Pass is steep, the trail is above tree line in high alpine zone. Maple Pass offers sensational views of surrounding mountain peaks. From the alpine meadows along the ridge top one can sit and enjoy the scenery and a view of both Lake Ann and Rainy Lake.  The trail then descends along a ridge line between Lake Ann and Rainy Lake dropping quickly and steeply into timber (this trail beyond the summit is steep and challenging), the trail then levels out when it junctions with the Rainy Lake trial.  Continue for about 0.25 mile on the paved Rainy Lake trail to return to the trailhead. 

  No camping is being permitted within 1/4 mile around Lake Ann or Rainy Lake or along the Heather/Maple Pass Loop Trail.

• Rainy Pass Picnic Site and Trailhead (Hwy 20 south
• Lake Creek Trail #500

  This trail is within Pasayten Wilderness. Trail to Black Lake follows Lake Creek and is an easy 4 mile walk. Since the 2003 wildfire the trail beyond Black Lake has many, many down trees making trail very difficult for hikers and impassable to stock. The unmaintained trail from Black Lake climbs steadily to Ashnola Pass (6,300’) then follows the Ashnola River north to meet the Boundary Trail #533 near the Ashnola river ford (5,320’).

• Lake Creek Trailhead
• Larch Creek/Billy Goat Pass Trail #502
• Libby Creek Trail #415

  A steep 5.3 mile trail entering the Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness, reaching 7,620 feet elevation, and arriving at the scenic destination of Libby Lake.

  The beginning of this trail follows an old skid road and is steep for the first 1,000 feet. It then joins the trail, climbing steadily for the first mile and hitting a small section of burned forest from the 2018 Crescent Mountain Fire.  At about 1.6mi, starting up the ridge, the trail enters the Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness.  

  At about 2 miles, the route drops down to a trail bridge over North Fork Libby Creek.  The trail then climbs steadily through forest with occasional openings, crossing two creeks at 6,400 feet and 6,800 feet. The final 0.75 mile becomes steep and winds its way through talus rock to Libby Lake.

  Along the trail about 4 miles in, there are remnants of an old log cabin which was built in the early 1900’s.  A rock dam is also visible that was constructed in 1911.  At the time it was used to control the lake's level for irrigation purposes. 

  Sawtooth Backcountry - brochure and map (Methow Valley and Chelan Ranger Districts)

  Sawtooth Backcountry - map only. This is a GeoPDF which can be downloaded into phone apps such as Avenza so that you can locate yourself on the map while out on the trails. 

• Libby Lake Trailhead
• Lightning Creek Trail #425
• Long Draw Trail #340
• Lookout Ridge Trail #423
• Louis Lake Trail #428
• Lower Eagle Lake Trail 431B
• Martin Creek Trail #429
• Martin Lake Trail 429 A
• McCall Gulch Trail #548
• Meadows Campground
• Middle Fork Beaver Creek Trail #406
• Middle Fork Trail #387
• Middle Mountain Trail
• Monument Creek Trail #484

  Trail is not maintained within the Pasayten Wilderness. This trail is only maintained to where the bridge is washed out (at about 4 miles). There may be down trees blocking the trail for stock. The bridge across Eureka Creek washed out so access to camping area on north side of creek is difficult. Alert! Trail beyond Eureka Creek has not been maintained for over 25 years, is difficult for hikers with no water available for 9 miles and is impassable to stock.

• Mystery Campground
• North Creek Trail #413
• North Fork Twentymile Trail #560
• Oval Creek Trail #410A
• Oval Lakes Trail #410B
• Pacific Crest Trail #2000 (Hwy 20 North )

  Heavily used trail with two stretches of timbered valleys, and two stretches of scenic alpine traverses.  Many  sweeping views. Trail grade does not exceed 10% (generally only 7.5%). Camps are generally located about every 6-7 miles, though in late summer finding water can be a problem in some stretches Camps are available at Porcupine Creek and Methow River. The trail between Methow and Granite passes sometimes experiences slides with loss of tread. This trail is too narrow and impassable to stock. Some stretches of trail (especially near Granite Pass) often do not melt out until late July to early August. Since most of this trail is in fragile alpine areas, special attention is needed to avoid unnecessary impact. Please refrain from building campfires, many of the camps in this area are in meadows with easily damaged vegetaion and little firewood. Reduce your visual impact by finding camps away form the trail and sheltered by trees or landforms. Snow patches may linger into late July or later. 

• Rainy Pass Trailhead (north side of Hwy 20)
• Pacific Crest Trail #2000 (Hwy 20 South)

  Pacific Crest Trail #2000 (Hwy 20 South to Bridge Creek) trail goes onto North Cascades National Park 2 miles from Bridge Creek Trailhead. North Cascade National Park backcountry permit is required to camp in the North Cascades National Park. A permit can be obtained at the National Park Service office in Marblemount or week days at the Methow Valley Ranger District office near Winthrop.

• Bridge Creek Trailhead
• Pacific Crest Trail #2000 (Pasayten Wilderness)
• Pasayten Drive Trail #405
• Pearrygin Creek Trail #526
• Peepsight Trail #525
• Poplar Flat Campground
• Ptarmigan Ridge Trail #455
• Reynolds Creek Trail #402

  Primitive trail through subalpine forest within Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness to the pass near Reynolds Peak at the North Cascades National Park border. No longer maintained, impassable to stock.

• Reynolds Creek Trailhead
• River Bend Campground
• 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.

• Robinson Creek Trailhead
• Rock Creek Trail #473
• Scaffold Ridge/Oval Peak Trail
• Scatter Creek Trail #427

  This trail enters Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness and climbs to Scatter Lake. First 500 feet is roadbed and Twisp River Trail. Switchbacks up through forest with occasional views. Crosses stream at 3 miles; subalpine forest and meadows continue up to the lake. Views of the Sawtooth Range and Abernathy Ridge. Wildflowers blooming along the trail during July put on a fine color display. Stock users camp in meadow approximately 1 mile before lake. Vegetation around the lake is fragile and firewood is scarce.

• Scatter Creek - Methow Valley RD Trailhead
• Sheep Lake Trail
• Sheep Mountain Trail
• Shellrock Pass Trail #484A
• Slate Lake Trail #414

  Trail begins in Douglas fir and ponderosa pine forest and climbs north into Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness. It is steep for the first 3 miles; last 2 miles easier through forest and meadows to Slate Lake. Excellent views of the Twisp River drainage and rugged peaks of Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness. No water near the trail

• Slate Creek Trailhead
• Smith Lake Trail #361
• South Creek Trail #401

  TRAIL CLOSURE:
  The trail is closed approximately 2.5 miles up South Creek Trail #401 at a gated private property boundary. There is no public access through the private land. There are no alternative routes around the private property due to steep terrain and high water crossings. See CLOSURE MAP

  Junction with LOUIS LAKE TRAIL #428 is before the closure but trail bridge is closed. See MAP, PHOTO AND INFO

  This forested trail heads into Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness. It is a fairly easy hike with good views, but limited camping.  Louis Lake Trail #428 branches left at the 2-mile marker. You will travel through an old wildfire at 5.5 miles, then cross a stream at 7 miles. Then the trail becomes rocky before the last 0.25 mile to the pass. At the pass the trail enters the Lake Chelan National Recreation Area managed by North Cascade National Park.

• South Creek Trailhead
• South Fork Slate Trail
• South Twentymile Trail
• Stub Creek/Deception Pass Trail #458
• Sunrise Lake Trail #417.2
• Tatoosh Buttes Trail #485
• Trout Creek Trail #479
• Tungsten Trail #534
• Twisp Pass Trail #432

  This forested, 4.8 mile trail starts on the left fork at the Gilbert Trailhead. It travels northwest and enters Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness at Twisp Pass. The trail is easy and forested for the first 1.5 miles. Two stream crossings at 1.9 miles then for the next mile the trail is on top of rock through subalpine forest and small meadows to pass. Limited camping at the pass. Trail continues into North Cascades National Park. A backcountry permit is required from North Cascades National Park to camp on the National Park. A pemit can be obtained at the National Park Service office in Marblemount or week-days at Methow Valley Ranger District office in Winthrop. 

• Gilbert Trailhead
• Twisp River Trail #440

  The best early season trail for mountain biking, horseback riding, and hiking. Crossings at Scatter and Slate creeks may become difficult in the spring due to high water. Generally up and down route is along hillside above the Twisp River. Highlights: Occasional views. A good day trip for a family outing.

• Upper Eagle Lake Trail 431A
• War Creek Campground
• War Creek Trail #408

  A historic route that follows War Creek within Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness to a high pass that has wonderful views of the Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Mountains range.  Most of the trail was burned over in the 2018 Crescent Mountain Fire, and the last 0.5 mile is steep. (At 2 miles in, the trail branches off to the unmaintained South Fork War Creek Trail, #409).

  War Creek Trail leads into the Lake Chelan Recreation Area, managed by North Cascade National Park. A North Cascades National Park backcounty permit is required to camp in the recreation area.

• War Creek Trailhead
• West Fork Buttermilk Trail #411

  This 9.5 mile forested trail is within Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness climbs to 7,480 feet at Fish Creek Pass where it connects with Fish Creek Trail #1248. Opportunities to climb nearby Star and Courtney Peaks. Star Lake is just beyond the pass. 

  Specific Difficulties: The trail crosses a marshy area that may be difficult for stock. Several stream fords along the route can also run high into July. Limited camping.

• West Fork Buttermilk Trailhead
• West Fork Methow Trail #480

  Trail leaves the road about 1 mile west of the River Bend Campground. The trail follows the Methow River through an old 2003 burn area providing an interesting opportunity to see natural regeneration after a fire with more wild flowers, brush and wildlife. Many snags along the trail could come down in windy weather. The trail passes through areas with avalanche slide chutes, brush and meadows for 8 miles to meet the Pacific Crest Trail.  This trail serves as an alternate route to access the Pacific Crest Trail.

• Rattlesnake Trailhead
• West Fork Pasayten Trail #472
• Whistler Cutoff Trail #575
• Williams Creek Trail #407

  The trail climbs moderately through forest into Lake-Chelan Sawtooth Wilderness to Williams Lake. It then travels across shale and talus slopes and through an old burned area. Trail ends at the lake. Beautiful alpine larch colors in late September.

• Williams Creek Trailhead
• Windy Creek Trail #362
• Windy Peak Trail #342

  This trail travels uphill for approximately 2.5 miles from the Long Swamp Campground and Windy Peak Trailhead to the Pasayten Wilderness boundary. From here the trail continues through areas of burned lodgepole pine to “Two Bear Camp” which is where water is available. The trail travels through the burned timber and open hillsides on its climb to Windy Peak where it continues on past the summit to the Boundary Trail #533 at Horseshoe Basin. The total trail length is 11.5 miles. Windy Peak has amazing panoramic views of the North Cascades and the surrounding area. On a clear day Mt. Baker is visible. Windy Lake is a side trip off trail to the north of Windy Peak.

• Windy Peak Trailhead
• Wolf Creek Trail #527

  Trail enters Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness and follows the valley bottom 10.3 miles to the meadows beneath Mt. Gardner. The route is mostly in timber, broken by occasional meadow areas. The trail follows the banks of Wolf Creek most of the way. There are 3 non-maintained trails that connect to this trail for those who want to explore. North Fork Wolf Creek Trail, Abernathy Trail and Hubbard Creek Trail, all were old stock driveways.

• Wolf Creek Trailhead
• Naches Ranger District

  The Naches Ranger District encompasses approximately 518,000 acres and extends from near the town of Naches to the crest of the Cascades in the William O. Douglas, Norse Peak, and Goat Rocks Wilderness Areas, and White Pass area. It is bordered by the Cle Elum Ranger District to the north along the Manastash Ridge divide, by the Yakama Indian Nation to the south, and Mt. Rainier National Park to the west.To the west of the district is the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, Mt. Rainier National Park, and Gifford Pinchot National Forest.

  Snowshoeing Information for Naches Ranger District [4-page PDF]

  See the Washington State Snowmobile SnoParks site or Non-Motorized SnoParks site for Naches area which has maps and information about groomed trails, passes you will need (Discover or SnoPark pass) and other updates.

• American Ridge Trail #958

  This long trail within William O. Douglas Wilderness offers solitude.  This trail climbs southwest along many ridges with the final section accessing the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail. Water and horse feed is scarce at east end, then more plentiful.

• American Ridge Trailhead
• Andy Creek Trailhead
• Basin Trail #987
• Bear Creek Mountain Trail #1130
• Bear Gap Trail #967
• Bumping Lake Trail #971
• Burnt Mountain Trail #1140
• Chairlift Trail #1112
• Chinook Pass Overlook Trailhead
• Conrad Meadows Trailhead
• Copper City Trail
• Cougar Lake Trail #958A
• Cougar Valley Trail #951A
• Cow Canyon Trail
• Cramer Lake Trail #1106
• Crow Lake Way Trail #953
• Crow Lake Way Trailhead / Sno-Park
• Dark Meadows Trail #1107
• Deep Creek Horsecamp Trailhead
• Deep Creek Trailhead
• Dewey Lake Trail #968
• Dog Creek Trail #973A
• Dog Lake Day Use/Boat Launch/Trailhead
• Fifes Ridge Trail #954

  Trail enters Norse Peak Wilderness to climb an arduous 3 miles, then the trail levels off on a ridge. It continues outside the wilderness toward the multi-use West Quartz Creek Trail #952. Horse feed is scarce.

• Wash Creek Trailhead
• Fish Lake Way Trail #971A

  Trail accesses the Bumping Lake Trail #971 in William O. Douglas Wilderness.

• Fish Lake Way Trailhead
• Fog City Trail #967A
• Goat Creek Trail #959
• Goat Peak Trail #958C
• Goose Prairie Trail #972
• Hindoo Trail #981
• Indian Creek Trail #1105
• Ironstone Mountain Trail #1141

  This long ridge trail within William O. Douglas Wilderness has outstanding views and elevations above 6000 feet, but no water. 

  Day trips are possible from Cash Prairie Trailhead to Burnt Mt. and Shellrock Peak, or take the west access at Andy Creek Trailhead and the beginning of Russell Ridge Trail #1111 to McNeil Peak or Ironstone Mt.

• Cash Prairie Trailhead
• Kettle Creek Trail #957
• Legos Trail
• Little Bald Mountain Trail #961
• Little Bear Trail #943B
• Little Buck Trail #1147
• Long John Trail #1142A
• Lookout Creek Trail #981A
• Louie Trail
• Louie Trail #1126
• Louisiana Saddle Trail #945A
• MJB Trail #1101
• Mcallister Trail #1109
• Mesatchee Creek Trail #969
• Middle Fork Trail #945 Motorcycle
• Morse Creek Trailhead
• Mount Aix Trail #982
• Mount Clifty Trail #947
• Nelson Ridge Trail #984
• Nile Ridge Trail #974
• North Fork Tieton Trail #1118

  This trail is within Goat Rocks Wilderness. The last 2 miles of this trail are steep. The trail accesses the Pacific Crest Trail and Hidden Springs Trail #1117.

• Scatter Creek - Nac Trailhead
• Pacific Crest Tr North - White Pass Trailhead
• Pacific Crest Trail #2000 (Naches North)
• Pacific Crest Trail #2000 (Naches South)
• Pear Butte Trail #979
• Pipeline Trail
• Pleasant Valley Lake Trail #958B
• Pleasant Valley Loop Trail #999
• Pleasant Valley Trail 999 - South Wilderness
• Pyramid Peak Trail #941
• Rattlesnake Peaks Trail #1100
• Rattlesnake Trail #1114
• Raven Roost Trail #951

  On a clear day, enjoy a sweeping view of Crow Creek Basin and Mt. Rainier from the Raven Roost Trailhead.  Avoid cutting switchbacks and stay on the trail as it winds down to Cougar Valley.

  This trail enters Norse Peak Wilderness and connects to Cougar Valley Trail #951A and ends at the Pacific Crest Trail #2000 at 3.9 miles.

• Richmond Mine Trail #973
• Round Lake Trail
• Round Mountain Trail #1144
• Russell Ridge Trail #1111
• Sand Creek Cutoff Trail #963A
• Sand Creek Trail #963

  The trail begins at Sand Creek and ends at Crow Creek Campground.

• Sand Ridge Trail #1104
• Sandy Trail #1104A
• Section 3 Lake Trailhead

  Provides access to: Bear Creek Mountain Trail #1130 within Goat Rocks Wilderness. There is also access to Tieton Meadows Trail #1128 within the first mile of Bear Mountain Creek Trail. 

• Bear Creek Mountain Lookout Trail #1130A
• Shellrock Lake Trail #1142
• Shellrock Peak Trail #1132
• Shoe Lake Trail #1119
• Soda Spring Trail #975
• South Fork Tieton Trail #1120
• South Fork Trail #946
• Sprial Butte Trail #1108
• Spring Trail #975A
• Swamp Lake Trail #970
• Ten Day Trail #1134
• Tieton Meadows Trail #1128
• Twin Sisters Trail #980
• Two Lakes Trail #990
• Union Creek Trail #956
• West Quartz Creek Loop Trail #952
• Wildcat Trail #1113
• Windy Ridge Trail #985
• Norse Peak Wilderness: Okanogan-Wenatchee
• Pasayten Wilderness
• Wenatchee River Ranger District

  

  The Wenatchee River Ranger District encompasses approximately 696,000 acres and extends from the near the city of Wenatchee and the Columbia River to the crest of the Cascades in the Glacier Peak and Alpine Lakes Wilderness areas. It is bordered by the Entiat Ranger District to the north along the Entiat Mountains divide and by the Cle Elum Ranger District to the south along the Wenatchee Mountains - Mt. Stuart divide. To the west of the district is the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest.

  Winter Recreation
  See the Washington State Snowmobile SnoParks site or Non-Motorized SnoParks site for Leavenworth / Lake Wenatchee area which has maps and information about groomed trails, passes you will need (Discover or SnoPark pass) and other updates.

   

  Midnight and Noontime Rocks and vicinity are annually closed to entry April 1 through July 31, to protect nesting raptors. 

  Attention Climbers: Raptor nesting behavior has been observed on both Midnight and Noontime Rocks. To protect these birds during the nesting period, these rocks and the area immediately above and between them is closed to all entry. Once nesting is confirmed, restrictions will be lifted on the rock not being used. If you know where the raptors are nesting, please contact the Leavenworth FS office. More Information

• Alder Ridge ORV Trail #1523

  CLOSED DUE TO WILDFIRE

  This trail has a seasonal closure to horses, motorbikes and mountain bikes mid-October through mid-July.

  This trail provides access to Entiat Ridge and the Mad Lake area. It is maintained primarily for motorcycles and mountain bikes.The trail follows Forest Road #6208-160 through Department of Natural Resources land for 1 mile.

  The annual seasonal closure is to protect natural resources, minimize damage to trails, and maintain quality trail systems. The seasonal closure protects trails from damage caused by wheeled and stock travel on muddy trails. When closed, the trails are open to hikers only. Trails are usually opened to wheeled and stock travel in mid July.

   

• Alder Ridge ORV Trailhead
• Badlands Trail #1576
• Basalt Pass Trail #1530

  This steep trail accesses high ridge country. It is 1.7 miles long, and is used primarily by hikers and stock riders.  The trail begins at the Basalt Pass Trailhead on Chikamin Ridge Road 6210.  From the trailhead at 3700 feet in elevation, the trail climbs to 5200 feet, where it ends at the Basalt Ridge Trail #1515.  Water is scarce.

• Basalt Pass Trailhead
• Basalt Ridge Trail #1515

  The Basalt Ridge Trail is 8.5 miles long, and is used primarily by hikers, mountain bikers, and stock users.  The trail begins at the Basalt Ridge Trailhead, located on Chiwawa River Road 6200, and ends at the Garland Peak Trail #1408.  The Basalt Ridge Trail climbs with moderate grades for the first 3 miles from the trailhead, then follows a scenic ridgeline. Water is scarce.

• Basalt Ridge Trailhead
• Beehive ORV Trailhead
• Blackjack Ridge Trail #1565

  This trail leads into Alpine Lakes Wilderness. It has ridgetop views and numerous steep switchbacks through forest and open meadows. The trail is difficult to follow in places. Horse feed available. It is 8.0 miles long, with an elevation gain of 3800 feet, and is open to hikers and stock users. The trail begins at the Blackpine Trailhead, and ends at the Snowall-Cradle Lake Trail #1560.  This trail is rated a strenuous hike.

• Blackpine Trailhead
• Boulder Creek Trail #1562
• Buck Creek Trail #1513

  August 2022 -- The small 6-acre Buck Creek Fire is burning in the Glacier Peak Wilderness. The fire was caused by lightning on August 11 and started mid-slope then spread outward due to some spotting. The upper side of the fire is surrounded by very green grass. Fire behavior has been minimal, the fire has been smoldering and creeping along the ground. Crews hiked in to the fire on August 21 and reported that the fire was slowly spreading outward.

  Recreationists can still use the trail system in that area, just be aware the fire is burning near Buck Creek Pass, close to where the horse camps are located. No trail closures are in effect, we just ask recreationists to be aware of their surroundings and pay attention to any increase in smoke volume in that vicinity which might indicate increased fire activity.

  WARNING: The bridge over Chiwawa River at 2.5 mile point collapsed from heavy winter snow. There is a log upstream of bridge to cross on. Fording river at this point would be difficult and dangerous in high water conditions. 

  The Buck Creek Trail is 9.6 miles long, with an elevation gain of 2800 feet, and is primarily used by hikers and stock users. This heavily used trail with gentle grades accesses the Buck Pass and Pass No Pass areas and the Chiwawa River Trail #1550 within Glacier Peak Wilderness.  The Buck Creek Trail ends at Buck Creek Pass at the forest boundary. Here the trail connects with Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest Trail #789, which meets up with Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail. The Buck Creek Trail is rated a moderate difficulty hike.

• Trinity Trailhead
• Cady Creek Trail #1501
• Cady Ridge Trail #1532
• Carne Mountain Trail #1508
• Cascade Creek Trail #1217
• Chain Lakes Trail #1569
• Chatter Creek Trail #1580

  WARNING: To those planning to hike a loop out through Frosty Pass and Icicle Creek Trail -- The bridge over French Creek 1.5 miles up Icicle Creek Trail #1551 is broken due to damage from heavy winter snowpack and is unsafe to cross. There is no way to ford the creek due to high water. No access beyond bridge on Icicle Creek Trail. It is not known when bridge will be replaced. See Photos of Bridge

  Chatter Creek Trail is 5.5 miles long, gains 3800 feet of elevation, and is primarily used by hikers. Hiking permits are required and can be obtained at the trailhead. This trail within Alpine Lakes Wilderness is very steep, brushy, and rocky in places. The trail is not recommended for horse travel.  The trail begins at the Chatter Creek Trailhead, and climbs steeply and steadily up slopes that alternate between forested and rocky terrain. There are several obvious campsites along the trail for the first 3-4 miles, until the thick trees open up to a large bowl. Then the trail becomes steeper and rockier as it switchbacks up for the last 1.5-2 miles, offering wonderful views of the bowl and the valley below. At the top of the ridge, the terrain becomes more forested again, and the trail ends at Icicle Ridge Trail #1570.

• Chatter Creek Trailhead
• Chikamin Tie ORV Trail #1561

  CLOSED DUE TO WILDFIRE

  This trail has a seasonal closure to horses, motorbikes and mountain bikes mid-October through mid-July.

  The Chikamin Tie ORV Trail is 6.2 miles long, gains 2600 feet of elevation, and is primarily used by motorcycles and mountain bikes. It is rated a more difficult ride. The trail begins at the Chikamin Tie ORV Trailhead and proceeds to climb up briefly until it intersects with the Minnow Ridge ORV Trail #1524 and the Chikamin Creek ORV Trail #1534. The trail keeps climbing through brushy and rocky terrain, and crosses Chikamin Ridge Road/ Forest Road 6210 at about 2 miles. The trail continues to switchback up and down varying terrain for another 4.1 miles, until it ends at Upper Mad River Trail #1409.1.

  There is a seasonal closure, which applies to bikes, motorcycles and horses, beyond Chikamin Ridge Road due to snow and wet trail conditions. The closure usually lasts until early to mid-July.

  The annual seasonal closure is to protect natural resources, minimize damage to trails, and maintain quality trail systems. The seasonal closure protects trails from damage caused by wheeled and stock travel on muddy trails. When closed, the trails are open to hikers only. Trails are usually opened to wheeled and stock travel in mid July.

  
  

  Chiwawa, Mad River, Entiat, Chelan Trail Map

• Chiwaukum Creek Trail #1571

  This 12 mile long and gentle valley-bottom trail provides access to Timothy Meadow within Alpine Lakes Wilderness.  Horse feed and designated stock camps are located in the Timothy Meadows area.  The trail then climbs to Brigham and Flora Lakes before ending at the junction with Icicle Ridge Trail #1570. There are also designated stock camps at Flora/Brigham Lakes. 

• Chiwaukum Creek Trailhead
• Chiwawa Basin Trail #1550A
• Chiwawa River Trail #1550
• Colchuck Lake Trail #1599A
• Devils Gulch ORV Trail #1220

  Devils Gulch Trail #1220 is a 9 mile valley trail that eventually climbs to a saddle on Mission Ridge where it ends at the Mission Ridge Trail #1201.This trail has moderate grades and travels along a sidehill above Mission Creek for much of the distance.

  Devils Gulch and Mission Ridge Trail Map

• Devils Gulch ORV Trailhead
• Upper Devils Gulch ORV Trailhead
• Eightmile - Trout Creek Trail #1554
• Eightmile Lake Trail #1552

  Road #7601 accessing Eightmile trailhead is OPEN (May 26, 2023)
  The road accesses Eightmile and Colchuck/Stuart trailheads. The road is closed to vehicles every winter to protect the roadbed from damage and prevent hazardous travel on the steep exposed snow covered road.

  See ADVISORY about dam repair work at Eightmile Lake.

  Reservations are required for overnight use from May 15 through October 31.

  SEE PARKING RESTRICTION BELOW.

  This scenic and heavily used trail within Alpine Lakes Wilderness has moderate grades, ending at the lake surrounded by high, jagged mountains in a little more than 3 miles. The trail meets up with and follows alongside an old logging road, then crosses a log bridge and continues to climb steadily uphill through forested and sometimes muddy terrain, until it crosses into the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. From there, the trail winds through heavily-wooded areas, with spectacular flowers during the summer, until it begins to climb switchbacks of moderate grade. The trail follows these until it passes Little Eightmile Lake on the left, and the junction with Eightmile-Trout Creek Trail #1554 on the right. Eightmile Lake Trail continues for another 0.5 miles, up switchbacks that cut across a recovering burn area and a large talus field on the east side of Eightmile Lake, ending at the lake itself, which is surrounded by high, jagged mountains. Eightmile Lake is within the Enchantments wilderness area, so please see the Enchantments Lakes permit information section for more information. Camping with stock is not allowed at Eightmile and Little Eightmile Lakes.

  DRONES ARE PROHIBITED IN ALL WILDERNESS AREAS

  DOGS ARE PROHIBITED

  DOGS are prohibited on Colchuck Lake trail, Stuart Lake trail and within the Enchantment Permit Area. Dogs, and all pets, are prohibited.
  Dogs whose sole purpose is to provide therapy, comfort, emotional support or crime deterrent DO NOT QUALIFY AS SERVICE DOGS under the regulation and are NOT ALLOWED. Defined by Department of Justice regulations 28 C.F.R. Part 35.136.

   

  This trail is within Alpine Lakes Wilderness. 

• Eightmile Trailhead
• Estes Butte Trailhead
• Ettienne Creek Trail #1210 (formerly Negro Creek)
• Falls Creek Trail #1216
• Flower Dome Trail #799
• Fourth Creek Trail #1218
• Fourth of July Creek Trail #1579

  This trail gains an impressive 4800 vertical feet in 5 miles to a junction with the Icicle Ridge Trail #1570 on a spectacular ridge.  1/4 mile west of the trail junction is the former site of the Icicle Ridge Lookout.  It is steep, brushy, and has many dry switchbacks. Some horse feed is available on Icicle Ridge. Water sources are limited. Watch for rattlesnakes. Many feel the challenge is worth the amazing view of the Stuart Range.

• Fourth of July Trailhead
• French Creek Trail #1595
• French Ridge Trail #1564
• Frosty - Wildhorse Trail #1592
• Glacier Creek Trail #1573
• Hardscrabble Creek Trail #1219
• Hatchery Creek Trail #1577

  This trail is within Alpine Lakes Wilderness.  It climbs continuously and steeply for 6.5 miles to the junction with Icicle Ridge Trail # 1570.  At 3 miles it meets The Badlands Trail #1576 at a junction.  Horse feed is available in the upper portions of Fall Creek.  This is the primary access for Lake Augusta (2 miles west on the Icicle Ridge Trail) as well as other fine subalpine country.

• Hatchery Creek Trailhead
• Heather Lake Trail #1526

  This heavily used trail, popular with day hikers, has moderate to steep grades. The trail travels through Henry M. Jackson Wilderness to Heather Lake in a little more than 3 miles.

• Heather Lake Trailhead
• High Pass Trail #1562.2
• Icicle Creek Trail #1551

  WARNING: The bridge over French Creek 1.5 miles up Icicle Creek Trail #1551 is broken. The creek maybe difficult to ford during high water.  The French Creek Trail #1595 or beyond bridge on Icicle Creek Trail can be accessed by fording the creek.  . It is not known when bridge will be replaced. See Photos of Bridge

  Also, the bridge over Icicle Creek at 5 mile point is broken and not usable. There is no way to ford the creek during high water.

  This valley-bottom trail goes through old-growth timber within Alpine Lakes Wilderness. There is limited horse feed.  A landslide that occurred in 2011 has damaged the trail beyond recognition approximately 2 miles south of Lake Josephine in the area with the junction of  Chain Lakes Trail #1569.  This section of trail is passable on foot but not recommended for stock.

• Icicle Creek Trailhead
• Icicle Ridge Trail #1570

  This trail provides access to Alpine Lakes Wilderness.

  The entire Icicle Ridge Trail is 29.6 miles long, gains 6100 total feet of elevation, and provides access to Alpine Lakes Wilderness. The first 3 miles of this trail provide a good day hike, climbing quickly from Icicle Ridge Trailhead to the ridgeline and offering views into the lower Icicle Creek valley. The trail continues to climb along the ridge until it reaches a junction with Fourth of July Creek Trail #1579, at about 9.0 miles. The trail keeps heading northwest, following the ridgeline and the wilderness boundary, then descends the north side of the ridge to drop down to Cabin Creek. From here, the trail climbs again to the ridge on the other side of Cabin Creek, and follows it northeast to the junction with Hatchery Creek Trail #1577. Icicle Ridge Trail continues west, ascending and descending until it reaches Lake Augusta, where there are several clear campsites. From here, the trail switchbacks down 2.2 miles to Carter Lake, which is also the junction with Painter Creek Trail # 1575. The trail continues west past Carter Lake, descending rocky switchbacks and old growth forest, until the junction with Index Creek Trail #1572. Then the trail climbs quickly and steeply to meet up with Chatter Creek Trail # 1580, and reaches Lake Edna shortly after. There are several well-established (although very exposed to the wind) campsites here. Icicle Ridge Trail is well-marked here, and climbs the rocky hillside to Ladies Pass, then drops down steadily to Frosty Pass, passing Florence Lakes and Lake Mary along the way, all of which have some excellent campsites. There are several established horse camps northeast of Frosty Pass along Icicle Ridge Trail, but after about 1.0 mile from Frosty Pass, the trail is designated as unmaintained, and as such becomes brushier and harder to follow. The trail drops down across meadowy slopes and through old growth forest, until it ends at Doelle Lakes, at a junction with Chain Lakes Trail # 1569. Water sources are limited for the first 14 miles of trail, between the Icicle Ridge Trailhead and Cabin Creek.

  The trail is not maintained beyond Frosty Pass.

• Icicle Ridge Trailhead
• Index Creek Trail #1572
• Indian Creek Trail #1502
• Ingalls Creek Trail #1215

  This trail is within Alpine Lakes Wilderness.

  Ingalls Creek Trail is 15.5 miles long, gains 4400 feet of elevation, and is used by hikers and stock users. The trail begins at Ingalls Creek Trailhead and climbs steadily through the forest alongside Ingalls Creek. Several trails have junctions with Ingalls Creek Trail as it heads east up the valley: Falls Creek Trail #1216, then Cascade Creek Trail #1217, followed by Hardscrabble Creek Trail #1219, Fourth Creek Trail #1218, Turnpike Creek Trail #1391, and Longs Pass Trail #1229. The trail between the trailhead and the junction with Longs Pass Trail #1229 gains elevation slowly, is mostly below tree-line, and is easy to follow, but after that junction it climbs more steeply, cuts across open, alpine meadows, and becomes brushier in places. This last section of the trail is 3.3 miles long and ends at Stuart Pass, where the trail turns into Jack Creek Trail #1558. There are many designated campsites for both hikers and stock along the length of the trail, and plenty of accessible water. The trail can be very brushy in sections. Additionally, there is no horse feed below Fourth Creek and limited feed above.

• Ingalls Creek Trailhead
• Irving Pass Trail #1545

  CLOSED DUE TO WILDFIRE

  This trail provides access to the Little Wenatchee Ridge Trail #1543 and the Poe Mountain area within Glacier Peak Wilderness.  From the trailhead it climbs for about one mile to Irving Pass. Then it is possible to continue on the Little Wenatchee Ridge Trail northwest toward the Poe Mountain Trail #1520.

• Irving Pass Trailhead
• Jack Creek Trail #1558
• Jack Ridge Trail #1557
• Jack Trout Trailhead
• Klonaqua Lake Trail #1563
• Lake Ethel Trail #1585

  This steep, dry trail crosses several logging roads located on private lands in the Coulter Creek area. Logging activity may continue to occur on these private lands.  It reaches Lake Ethel and the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Boundary in about 5 miles.

  This trail provides access deeper into Alpine Lakes Wilderness as well.

• Lake Ethel Trailhead
• Lake Minotaur Trail #1517

  This short 1.6 mile trail is very steep. It climbs through forest to access the subalpine environments of Minotaur Lake and Theseus Lake within Henry M. Jackson Wilderness. 

• Lake Minotaur Trailhead
• Lanham Lake Trail #1589

  This trail is an easy day hike.  The mid-section of trail is an old road, and the trail crosses under large powerlines.  It finally enters a nice stand of old growth forest to reach the lake and views of a dramatic flank of Jim Hill Mountain

• Lanham Lake Trailhead
• Leland Creek Trail #1566
• Leroy High Route Trail #1512
• Little Giant Trail #1518

  This steep trail within Glacier Peak Wilderness follows portions of an old sheep driveway. The trail is very eroded and narrow on the Napeequa River side of pass.

  Alert! There are no bridges across the Chiwawa River and the Napeequa Rivers. Crossings may be hazardous during high water. This trail is hazardous for stock use.

• Little Giant Trailhead
• Little Wenatchee Ridge Trail #1543
• Little Wenatchee Trail #1525

  This trail travels along the valley floor of the Little Wenatchee River within Henry M.Jackson Wilderness for several miles before switchbacking up 1500' to Meander Meadows.  The trail travels through intermitent slide alder and mature forest. There are several obvious campsites along the trail below Meander Meadows, and many well-established campsites in the Meadows. Keeping right along the trail rather than heading down to the Meadows. At 7.2 miles, the trail reaches the Pacific Crest Trail #2000 within Glacier Peak Wilderness.  This trail provides ample opportunities for backpacking and dayhiking.

• Little Wenatchee Ford Trailhead
• Loch Eileen Trail #1584.1
• Lorraine Ridge Trail #1568
• McCue Ridge Trail #1574
• Merritt Lake Trail #1588

  The Merritt Lake Trail is 2.0 miles long, gains 1700 feet of elevation, and is primarily used by hikers and stock users. The trail begins at the Merritt Lake Trailhead, which is located off US-2, near milepost 76, and heads immediately up densely-forested switchbacks. The trail is well-traveled the entire way up; however, fallen trees across the trail may make travel difficult for stock users. The trail ends at the junction with Nason Ridge Trail #1583, which continues to Merritt Lake.

• Merritt Lake Trailhead
• Minnow Creek Trail #1539

  This trail begins at the Minnow Creek Trailhead, 3.5 miles from the Chiwawa River Road #6200, on Forest Road #6210. It is a short uphill trail that ties into the Basalt Ridge Trail #1515.

• Minnow Creek Trailhead
• Mission Ridge ORV Trail #1201

  This trail is steep with ridgetop views. There is no water along the trail. Some horse feed is available.

  Devils Gulch and Mission Ridge Trail Map

• Mission Ridge Trailhead
• Napeequa River Trail #1562.1
• Nason Cross-Country Ski Trail
• Nason Ridge Trail #1583

  This scenic trail travels the length of Nason Ridge. The trail offers an abundance of panoramic views while traveling near the crest of Nason Ridge.  The trail provides access to the Alpine Fire Lookout, which is still active.  Also, from the trail, Merritt Lake, Lost Lake, Crescent Lake and Rock Lake can all be accessed and provides nice lakeside camping.  Remember to use existing sites and do not camp on vegetation.  On the west end of the ridge where the trail meets the Snowy Creek trail, you can scramble to the summit of Rock Mountain, which is the site of an old fire lookout.  The lookout is no longer there, but the summit provides great views of the cascade range.

  For bikers looking for a high elevation, difficult ride, the trail is open for mountain bikes for the entire length. 

  Water is scarce. Three miles from the trailhead, the trail follows and crosses a logging road for 1/2 mile. The trail is narrow and eroded in places between Merritt Lake and Rock Mountain, and this section of trail is not recommended for horses. Motorcycles are prohibited west of Ninemile Saddle (nine miles from the Nason Ridge Trailhead).  Remember to self register at the trailhead.

• Nason Ridge Trailhead
• North Fork Chiwaukum Trail #1591
• Old Gib Trail #1528
• Pacific Crest - Stevens Pass North Trailhead
• Pacific Crest Trail #2000 (Stevens Pass South)
• Painter Creek Trail #1575
• Phelps Basin Trail #1511A
• Phelps Creek Trail #1511

  This trail accesses Glacier Peak Wilderness and Spider Meadows area.

  Phelps Creek Trail is 7.2 miles long and is primarily used by hikers and stock users. This heavily-used trail accesses the Glacier Peak Wilderness and features gentle grades, leading to the popular Spider Meadows area. The trail begins at the Phelps Creek Trailhead and follows the valley bottom alongside Phelps Creek, climbing very slowly through dense forest. 0.25 miles from the trailhead, Carne Mountain Trail #1508 branches off north and switchbacks steeply up. Phelps Creek Trail enters the Glacier Peak Wilderness at 2.6 miles from the trailhead, and continues to climb slowly, crossing several rivers that may be high and difficult to ford, depending on the time of year. Immediately after crossing Leroy Creek, Leroy High Route #1512 branches steeply up to the northeast, while Phelps Creek Trail continues smoothly on. After about 3.0 more miles, which may be difficult to navigate if there is snow on the ground, the forest opens up to Spider Meadow—a large, flowery, beautiful meadow surrounded by breathtaking peaks and old landslides and blowdowns. There are many hiker campsites here and several designated stock sites. Phelps Basin Trail #1511A continues for 0.5 miles at the north end of the meadow (stock not allowed on this trail), from where the adventurous can access Spider Gap and Spider Glacier, although this route is not designated and not maintained. 

• Phelps Creek Trailhead
• Poe Mountain Trail #1520
• Prusik Pass Trail #6714
• Red Hill ORV Trail #1223
• Rock Creek Tie Trail #1538
• Rock Creek Trail #1509

  Rock Creek Trail is 11.7 miles long, gains 4000 feet of elevation, and is primarily used by hikers and stock users. The trail begins at the Rock Creek Trailhead, and climbs steadily along the densely-forested valley, sometimes cutting across the sides of the canyon, and sometimes following alongside Rock Creek. At 2.5 miles from the trailhead, Rock Creek Tie Trail #1538 branches off to the east, while Rock Creek Trail continues northeast.  After about 3.5 miles, the trail crosses Rock Creek at a major ford, and there are several clear campsites on both sides of the river here. The trail becomes more difficult to follow past this point, climbing north across increasingly brushy meadow and then cutting into the forest, where the trail is easier to follow. Rock Creek Trail leaves the forest again, weaving up the meadow and crossing blowdowns and that may make the trail even trickier to follow. The faint trail continues to crisscross Rock Creek over the meadow, until it reaches the base of a steep, rocky slope. The eroded trail switchbacks up, then follow the contour of the rocky bowl south across the scree and talus, climbing toward the saddle below Carne Mountain. The trail becomes more obvious again near the top of the saddle, and the trail ends at a junction with Carne Mountain Trail #1508 heading south, and Leroy High Route Trail # 1512 heading north. The trail is not recommended for stock travel after about 9 miles from the trailhead, as it becomes very brushy and eroded for the last almost 3 miles. A good horse camp is located 7 miles from the trailhead.

  This trail enters Glacier Peak Wilderness at 4.5 miles. 

• Rock Creek Trailhead
• Rock Mountain Trail #1587

  This very steep, dry, and scenic trail has 90+ switchbacks and climbs along an open rib to a junction with the Nason Ridge Trail #1583.  Use the Nason Ridge Trail #1583 to access the old Rock Mountain lookout site and Rock Lake. The trail is not recommended for stock or mountain bikes.

• Rock Mountain Trailhead
• Round Mountain Trail #1529

  A temporary road closure will be in place on Butcher Creek Road #6910 from October 7 through October 11, 2019 while repairs are made to a road culvert that sustained damaged from a flood event in 2018. During the closure there will be no access to the Round Mountain and Nason Ridge trails to Alpine Lookout.  More Information

  This trail climbs on moderate to steep grades to access the Nason Ridge Trail #1583 and Alpine Lookout. Water is scarce.

• Round Mountain Trailhead
• Schaefer Lake Trail #1519

  This trail has moderate to steep grades climbing from the river valley up to Schaefer Lake within Glacier Peak Wilderness.  Schaefer Lake sits in a pretty subalpine basin.

  Alert! There is no bridge across the Chiwawa River; log jam crossing may be hazardous. This trail is not recommended for stock.

• Schaefer Lake Trailhead
• Smithbrook Trail #1590

  This heavily used short trail climbs to Union Gap and a junction with the Pacific Crest Trail #2000 which enters Henry M. Jackson Wilderness. Smithbrook Trail is 0.9 miles long and is heavily used by hikers. It starts at the Smithbrook Trailhead and steadily switchbacks through old-growth forest to Union Gap. The top of the trail may be snow-covered and difficult-to-follow, depending on the season.

  Visit the US Forest Service Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail website for more information and maps.

• Smithbrook Trailhead
• Snow Lakes Trail #1553

  Trail users should anticipate potential for 15-30 minute delays through first ¼ mile of trail during September – October 2021 and March – April 2022.  MORE INFORMATION

  Overnight reservation permit required May 15 to October 31

  This trail is within Alpine Lakes Wilderness.  The Snow Lakes Trail is 12 miles long, gains 6500 feet of elevation, and is designated hiker-only. The trail begins at Snow Lakes Trailhead, crossing a bridge over Icicle Creek, then starts to switchback up the rocky canyon. The heavily-used trail has very little tree cover and no water for approximately 2.5 miles, then it passes Snow Creek on the right and continues to switchback up through the forest. The trail climbs more steeply across an old landslide path, and heads into denser forest, leveling out and opening up at Nada Lake, which is about 5.6 miles from the trailhead. There are many well-established campsites on the east shore of Nada Lake, and the trail continues to the southeast end of the lake. It then switchbacks up over a large talus and scree slope, climbing 1.7 miles until it reaches Lower Snow Lake, where there are several well-marked campsites. The trail goes over the old dam between Upper and Lower Snow Lakes, and continues for 1.5 miles along the south shore of Upper Snow Lake, where there are dozens of  campsites. After the head of Upper Snow Lake, the trail is designated unmaintained, and is very rugged. The path switchbacks up extremely steeply: parts of it cut through dense forest, where gnarled roots grow in the middle of the trail, and sections of it cross precipitous granite outcroppings that can be very slick if it is raining. The trail reaches Lake Viviane after about 1 mile of steep uphill scrambling, and there are several lovely campsites here with breathtaking views of the valley below and the surrounding peaks. A short, steep climb up the north-facing granite cliff, and the trail passes Leprechaun Lake, then continues less steeply—though no less ruggedly—past Sprite Pond and around the east side of Perfection Lake. At the head of Perfection Lake, Snow Lake Trail ends and becomes Colchuck Lake Trail #1599.1, which continues through the Upper Enchantments. Please be advised: while heavily-trafficked, the trail beyond Upper Snow Lake to the Core Enchantments is a primitive route marked with rock cairns, and is recommended only for experienced hikers.

   

  DRONES ARE PROHIBITED IN ALL WILDERNESS AREAS

  DOGS ARE PROHIBITED

  DOGS are prohibited on Colchuck Lake trail, Stuart Lake trail and within the Enchantment Permit Area. Dogs, and all pets, are prohibited.
  Dogs whose sole purpose is to provide therapy, comfort, emotional support or crime deterrent DO NOT QUALIFY AS SERVICE DOGS under the regulation and are NOT ALLOWED. Defined by Department of Justice regulations 28 C.F.R. Part 35.136.

• Snow Lakes Trailhead
• Snowall - Cradle Lake Trail #1560
• Snowy Creek Trail #1531

  This trail accesses the Nason Ridge Trail #1583 and is often used to reach the former Rock Mountain Lookout site.  It climbs on moderate grades to a small meadow near the base of Rock Mountain.

• Snowy Creek Trailhead
• Solomon Creek Trail #1593
• Square Lake Trail #1567
• Squilchuck Trail #1200

  This popular trail provides access to Clara and Marion Lakes which are located in the Colockum Wildlife Area managed by the WA State Department of Fish & Wildlife.

• Squilchuck Trailhead
• Stuart Lake Trail #1599

  Road #7601 accessing Stuart / Colchuck trailhead is OPEN (May 29, 2022)
  The road accesses Eightmile and Colchuck/Stuart trailheads. The road is closed to vehicles every winter to protect the roadbed from damage and prevent hazardous travel on the steep exposed snow covered road. 

  The Stuart Lake Trail is drying out with only a few patches of snow lingering in shady areas. 5/29/23

  An overnight reservation permit is required from May 15 to October 31. 

  This trail is very popular and climbs on moderate grades with some steep sections, reaching picturesque Stuart Lake in 4.5 miles.  It is within Alpine Lakes Wilderness and part of the Enchantment Permit Area.

  SEE NEW PARKING INFORMATION BELOW.

  DRONES ARE PROHIBITED IN ALL WILDERNESS AREAS

  DOGS ARE PROHIBITED

  DOGS are prohibited on Colchuck Lake trail, Stuart Lake trail and within the Enchantment Permit Area. Dogs, and all pets, are prohibited.
  Dogs whose sole purpose is to provide therapy, comfort, emotional support or crime deterrent DO NOT QUALIFY AS SERVICE DOGS under the regulation and are NOT ALLOWED. Defined by Department of Justice regulations 28 C.F.R. Part 35.136.

   

  This trail is within Alpine Lakes Wilderness. 

• Stuart Lake Trailhead
• Top Lake Trail #1506

  This 5.3 mile trail accesses the Pacific Crest Trail #2000 within Henry M. Jackson Wilderness. It has moderate to steep grades. From the trailhead it climbs along high subalpine ridge country across the flank of Fall Mountain. The last .25 mile is a very steep, eroded descent to Top Lake, set in pretty meadow country.

• Top Lake Trailhead
• Tronsen Ridge ORV Trail #1204

  This steep ridgetop trail has loose, rocky soil. It runs for 9 miles along the length of scenic and open Tronsen Ridge.  At 4.5 miles is a junction with the Red Hill Trail #1223.  There is limited water and horse feed available.  It is popular with mortorbike riders.

  Devils Gulch and Mission Ridge Trail Map

• Ruby Creek ORV Trailhead
• Tronsen Ridge ORV Trailhead
• Upper Tronsen Ridge ORV Trailhead
• Trout Creek Trail #1555
• Twin Lakes Trail #1503

  This 4.2 miles trail leads to Twin Lakes within Glacier Peak Wilderness.  It begins on a gentle gradient in the Napeequa River valley and then climbs about 600 vertical feet to the outlet of Twin Lakes.

• Twin Lakes Trailhead
• Upper Roaring Creek Trail #1584
• Van Epps Creek Trail #1594
• White Pine Creek Trail #1582

  This brushy, but scenic, river bottom trail accesses the Wildhorse Creek Trail #1592 within Alpine Lakes Wilderness. It follows the drainage, a bit above the creek, to the Wildhorse Creek Trail junction at 2.5 miles from the trailhead.  It is often indistinct beyond the junction as it climbs to meet the Icicle Creek Trail #1551.

• White Pine Trailhead
• White River Trail #1507

  This trail is within Glacier Peak Wilderness. About 4 miles from the trailhead is the junction with the Boulder Creek Trail #1562.  The White River Trail has not been maintained beyond this point in many years, is non-existent and extremely brushy in sections, and therefore is not recommended for travel. Access to the Pacific Crest Trail is possible via the Indian Creek Trail #1502. 

• White River Trailhead
• Wildhorse Creek Trail #1592
• William O. Douglas Wilderness: Okanogan-Wenatchee