Robinson Creek - Middle Fork Trail #478


This trail within Pasayten Wilderness runs mostly through big timber along the river bottom with some open views in meadow avalanche chutes. From the pass one can scramble up Devil's Peak to the east, or up a small knob to the west for sweeping views of the u-shaped valley of the Middle Fork of the Pasayten River. Along the trail you may notice the ruins of several cabins. These belonged to Billy Robinson, an early days trapper after whom the drainage was named. Slate Peak is promiment to the northwest. This trail provides access and popular side trips in the central Pasayten. Ferguson and Freds lakes and Lake Doris are short side trips from Trail #478. Side trips with good views include Tatoosh Buttes Trail #485, Point Defiance Trail #471 (unmaintained and difficult to follow), and Buckskin Ridge Trail #498. Many loop trips are possible.

At a Glance

Current Conditions: Current conditions information
Area Amenities: Interpretive Site, Fee charged for some activities, Picnic tables, Toilets, Drinking water, Parking
Fees: Recreation pass required for parking at trailhead. (A $5/vehicle/day Northwest Forest Pass can be purchased from a self-pay station provided at the trailhead).
Permit Info: A free self -issue wilderness permit is required in the Pasayten wilderness (available at trailhead).
Open Season: Late June
Best Season: August-September
Busiest Season: August-September
Restrictions: No motorized or mechanized vehicles.  Wilderness regulations apply. Certified weed free hay is required on national lands (proccessed grain okay)
Closest Towns: Winthrop, WA
Water: No potable water
Restroom: At trailhead only
Passes: A valid Recreation Pass required at Robinson Creek Trailhead. (A $5/vehicle/day Northwest Forest Pass can be purchased from a self-pay station provided at the trailhead).
Operated By: Forest Service
Information Center: Methow Valley Ranger District.

General Information

Directions:

From Winthrop, Washington drive 15 miles west on Highway 20, turn right onto Lost River Road, drive 7.5 miles on pavement and continue another 1.5 miles on gravel forest road 5400 to Robinson Creek Trailhead on the right side of road.


Activities

Lake and Pond Fishing

Recreation areas with activity Lake and Pond Fishing:

Lake fishing in Ferguson, Fred, Doris or Buckskin lakes.

Day Hiking

Recreation areas with activity Day Hiking: See additional information under Backpacking.

Backpacking

Recreation areas with activity Backpacking:

This trail provides access and popular side trips in the central Pasayten. Ferguson and Freds lakes and Lake Doris are short side trips from Trail #478. Side trips with good views include Tatoosh Buttes Trail #485, Point Defiance Trail #471 (unmaintained), and Buckskin Ridge Trail #498. Many loop trips are possible.

Horse Riding

Recreation areas with activity Horse Riding: See additional information under Backpacking.

Viewing Scenery

Recreation areas with activity Viewing Scenery:

There are good views and open meadow areas near the pass. Side trips with good views include Tatoosh Buttes Trail #485, Point Defiance Trail #471 (unmaintained), and Buckskin Ridge Trail #498.

Amenities

Interpretive Site: interpretive information
Picnic tables:
Fee charged for some activities: Recreation pass self-pay station
Parking: with stock ramp and hitch rail
Toilets: at trailhead
Drinking water: stock water only, not potable water