Trail Conditions

The scenic North Cascade corridor offers world-class recreation opportunities and some of the Methow Valley Ranger District's most frequently visited trails. This section describes a few trails that are regularly maintained in the corridor, and a few that are maintained sporadically. These descriptions are exclusively for trails on the Methow Valley Ranger District, which extends as far West as the Canyon Creek Trailhead. Details on trails in the North Cascades National Park can be found on the park’s website. If you are visiting in the fall to observe larches, expect crowds, too! Please observe posted no parking signs and be considerate of delicate alpine vegetation when passing others on trails. There are a variety of USFS campsites along the corridor, or consider staying at the Freestone Inn and Suites, the Inn at Mazama, or Mazama Ranch House. Trails on this page are listed from East (Mazama direction) to West (Ross Lake).

The North Cascade Scenic Highway is closed for the season between Silver Star Snow Park and Nehalem. Check WSDOT’s page for updates.

• Cedar Creek #476- 9-mile-long trail, Cedar Falls at mile marker 1.5
  Trail Use Type: hiking, mountain biking, equestrian
  Highlights: views of Goat Peak and Goat Wall, Cedar Creek Falls is a great short day hike, Abernathy Pass connects to the Chelan Sawtooth drainage
  Considerations: multi-use etiquette, food storage order
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass
  Current Conditions: This trail saw significant post-fire restoration after the Cedar Creek Fire in 2021. The tread is in excellent shape. The first 4.5 miles of trail were logged out by MVTC staff and volunteers in 2025. Currently under snow (03/01/2026)
  

• Driveway Butte #418 - 4.4-mile-long trail
  Trail Use Type: hiking, equestrian
  Highlights: spring wildflowers and year-round views of Silver Star Peak and the Pasayten Wilderness
  Considerations: food storage order, LNT
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass
  Current Conditions: MVTC has been logging this trail out since 2022. We’ve been making incremental progress on the narrow outsloped tread of the first two miles, and encroaching brush to the summit. Expect some willow bashing, but less than in the past. Currently under snow (03/01/2026)
  

• Cutthroat Creek #483 - 2 miles to Cutthroat Lake, 5.7 miles to Cutthroat Pass
  Trail Use Type: hiking, equestrian, mountain biking
  Highlights: Beautiful alpine lake in a cirque, larches in the fall, views of the North Cascades from Cutthroat Pass, access to the Pacific Crest Trail
  Considerations: Food storage order, LNT, overflow parking, high use, alpine vegetation, multi use etiquette
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass
  Current Conditions: SR-20 is closed for the season. Logged out to the pass in 2025. MVTC replaced the footlong to the lake in 2025 and two trail bridges in 2024. Currently under snow (03/01/2026)
  

• Lone Fir lollipop - 2 mile loop, ¼ mile paved ADA portion
  Trail Use Type: hiking, ADA accessible, but the bridge is out
  Highlights: short outing through subalpine forest accessible from a campground
  Considerations: Food storage order, LNT, overflow parking, high use, alpine vegetation
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass
  Current Conditions: SR-20 is closed for the season. Lone Fir Campground is currently closed to the public for a repaving project. A trail bridge ~200’ from the trailhead is out and was decommissioned in 2021. MVTC plans to replace this bridge in fall of 2026. Currently under snow (03/01/2026)
  

• Blue Lake #314 - 2.2 miles to Blue Lake 
  Trail Use Type: hiking, rock climbing access
  Highlights: Beautiful alpine lake in a cirque, larches in the fall, the official Liberty Bell climber access trail departs from the Blue Lake Trail at MP 1.7
  Considerations: LNT, overflow parking, high use, alpine vegetation
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass
  Current Conditions: Logged out to the lake in 2025. Boardwalks at the start of the trail are deteriorating, so watch your step! Currency under snow (03/01/2026)
  

• Pacific Crest Trail #2000 (South from Bridge Creek TH) and Copper Pass #426 - 38 miles to Stehekin via the PCT, or 5 miles to Copper Pass
  Trail Use Type: hiking, equestrian
  Highlights: subalpine views, and larches in the fall the official Copper Pass trail begins off the PCT 0.9 miles from SR 20 at a marked junction
  Considerations: Food storage order, LNT, overflow parking, high use, alpine vegetation
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass
  Current Conditions: The PCT is logged out annually. The Copper Pass trail is in the 2023 Blue Lake fire burn scar and hasn’t seen maintenance since. Expect a sooty, rugged outing if accessing the alpine via this route. Currently under snow (03/01/2026)
  

• Rainy Lake #310 - 1 mile to Rainy Lake
  Trail Use Type: hiking, ADA
  Highlights: Beautiful alpine lake in a cirque, larches in the fall. A paved outing that offers stunning views for all abilities.
  Considerations: food storage order, LNT, overflow parking, high use, alpine vegetation
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass
  Current Conditions: MVTC replaced the barrier at the lake overlook in 2025. Currently under snow (03/01/2026)
  

• Maple Pass Loop #740 - a 6.5 mile loop
  Trail Use Type: hiking
  Highlights: Lakes, larches, and looks in a less than ten-mile loop
  Considerations: food storage order, LNT, overflow parking, high use, alpine vegetation
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass
  Current Conditions: SR-20 is closed for the season. Logged out in 2025, steep tread is eroding in several spots. Do your part and don’t cut switchbacks! Currently under snow (03/01/2026)
  

• Pacific Crest Trail #2000 (North from Rainy Pass TH) - 60 miles to Canada, and 5.5 miles to Cutthroat Pass
  Trail Use Type: hiking, equestrian
  Highlights: Alpine views, larches in the fall, and often less crowded than Heather Male Pass across the road.
  Considerations: food storage order, LNT, overflow parking, high use, alpine vegetation
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass
  Current Conditions: SR-20 is closed for the season. The PCT is logged out annually. Currently under snow (03/01/2026)
  

• Easy Pass Trail #471- 3.5 miles to Easy Pass
  Trail Use Type: hiking
  Highlights: Alpine views, larches in the fall, North Cascade NPS access
  Considerations: food storage order, LNT, overflow parking, high use, alpine vegetation
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass
  Current Conditions: Easy Pass was logged out in 2025. Currently under snow (03/01/2026)
  

• East Creek Trail #756- 9 miles to Mebee Pass
  Trail Use Type: hiking
  Highlights: Historic Gold Hill Mine and MeBee Pass Lookout
  Considerations: food storage order, LNT, overflow parking, high use, alpine vegetation
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass
  Current Conditions: SR-20 is closed for the season. First four miles logged out in 2025. A new trail bridge was installed in 2025. First four miles logged out in 2025, but the trail deteriorates significantly beyond. Currently under sown (03/01/2026)

Canyon Creek Trailhead

• Chancellor Creek Trail #754- 7 miles to East Creek
  Trail Use Type: hiking
  Highlights: Adventurous, unmaintained trail expect solitude and a washout at 4 miles
  Considerations: food storage order, LNT, overflow parking, high use, alpine vegetation
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass
  Current Conditions: Unmaintained,  so expect rough travel and solitude. Currently under snow (03/01/2026)

• Jackita Ridge Trail #738- 7.5 miles to Devils Pass
  Trail Use Type: hiking
  Highlights: A stunning backpacking loop, or long day hike to Crater Peak. The PNT at Devils Pass saw maintenance on both the East and West in 2025.
  Considerations: food storage order, LNT, overflow parking, high use, alpine vegetation
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass, self issue wilderness permit if venturing into the Pasayten.
  Current Conditions: SR-20 is closed for the season. MVTC logged out this trail in 2025. Currently under snow (03/01/2026)

With the Mazama Store immediately present to fuel the beginnings or ends of adventures, the region offers multiple trails showcasing views of the upper Methow Valley. For those willing to make the drive, Harts Pass, the highest point accessible by car in Washington state, also offers many beautiful alpine trails. If hiking a trail in the valley bottom, keep an eye and ear out for rattlesnakes, who love sunny south-facing cliff sides. Rattlesnakes are not a concern if recreating at Hart’s Pass, but be sure to check the weather report before driving up, since the road has experienced washouts due to floods in past summers. Located in the northwesternmost part of the Methow Valley, this area is the closest to these amenities: The Freestone Inn, The Inn at Mazama, Mazama Ranch House, and Rolling Huts. Trails are described from East to West, then from Harts Pass. 

• Goat Peak Lookout Trail #457 - 2.2 miles from the trailhead to the summit
  Trail Use Type: hiking, equestrian
  Highlights: Views of the upper Methow Valley, Larches in the fall, and a staffed lookout in the summer
  Considerations: Leave No Trace, dogs/human wildlife interactions
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass
  Current Conditions/Notes: Trail logged out in 2025. Currently under snow. (03/01/2026)

• Monument Creek Trail #484 - 25 miles, though only the first 4 miles to Eureka Creek are maintained regularly. MVTC cleared from Eureka Creek to Lake of the Woods for the first time in over a decade in 2025.
  Trail Use Type: hiking, equestrian (stock are advised to turn around at Eureka Creek)
  Highlights: Views of the upper Methow Valley, Larches in the fall, and a lovely hike along the “lost river.”
  Considerations: Food storage order, Leave No Trace, dogs/human wildlife interactions
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass for the trailhead, self-issue wilderness permit
  Current Conditions/Notes: Trail logged out to Lake of the Woods in 2025; beyond has not been maintained in decades. Currently under snow, but melting quickly. (03/01/2026)

• Robinson Creek Trail #478 - 23 miles from the trailhead to the northern terminus deep in the Pasayten 
  Trail Use Type: hiking, equestrian 
  Highlights: an unburned drainage accessing deep parts of the Pasayten Wilderness and offering a moderate day hike
  Considerations: Food storage order, Leave No Trace, dogs/human wildlife interactions
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass for the trailhead, self-issue wilderness permit
  Current Conditions/Notes: Trail logged out in 2025. Currently under snow (03/01/2026)

• West Fork of the Methow #480 - 9 miles from the trail head to the terminus at the Pacific Crest Trail
  Trail Use Type: hiking, equestrian, biking
  Highlights: A beautiful valley with open views
  Considerations: Food storage order, Leave No Trace, dogs/human wildlife interactions
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass for the trailhead
  Current Conditions/Notes: Logged out to Trout Creek in 2025 (MP 3). Beyond Trout Creek, the trail was logged out and brushed in 2023, but the ceanothus has significantly encroached on the trail corridor. The trail between Trout Creek and the PCT is a wild experience through thick brush. Impassible for stock and bikes, but determined hikers can find a way through. Currently under snow. (03/01/2026)

HARTS PASS

This iconic road is maintained annually, though it is narrow with consequential drop-offs. Trailers are not permitted on Harts Pass Road beyond Rattlesnake Campground, and vehicles over 14’ are discouraged. Volunteers often staff the Hart’s Pass guard station to answer questions and encourage responsible recreational use.

The Hart’s Pass road saw significant damage during the December 2025 rain event and will likely need repairs in the spring. The trails listed on this site are those that leave Harts Pass or are possible on a day hike. It is not an exhaustive list of trails in the Pasayten Wilderness accessed via Harts Pass. If you’re looking for more details on some of the more remote trails, check out the trail crew’s log blog or MVTC’s logout map page.

• Pacific Crest Trail #2000 from Harts Pass Campground. This describes the stretch going south from the Harts Pass Guard Station.
  Trail Use Type: hiking, equestrian
  Highlights: High alpine views of the North Cascades and wildflowers
  Considerations: Food storage order, Leave No Trace, dogs/human wildlife interactions, high use, alpine vegetation
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass for the trailhead, self-issue wilderness permit
  Current Conditions/Notes: Logged out annually. Currently under snow (03/01/2026)

• Pacific Crest Trail #2000 From the PCT trailhead, 30 miles from the road to the Canadian border
  Trail Use Type: hiking, equestrian
  Highlights: High alpine views of the North Cascades and wildflowers
  Considerations: Food storage order, Leave No Trace, dogs/human wildlife interactions, high use, alpine vegetation
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass for the trailhead, self-issue wilderness permit
  Current Conditions/Notes: Logged out annually. Currently under snow (03/01/2026)

• Buckskin Ridge #498 - 16 miles from the trailhead to the terminus at the Pasayten River
  Trail Use Type: hiking, equestrian, though equestrians should be prepared for narrow tread on steep cross slopes
  Highlights: High alpine views, lovely lakes, and stunning wildflowers
  Considerations: Food storage order, Leave No Trace, dogs/human wildlife interactions, high use, alpine vegetation
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass for the trailhead, self-issue wilderness permit
  Current Conditions/Notes: Logged out completely in 2025. Currently under snow (03/01/2026)

• Ferguson Lake #474 Via Whistler Cutoff - 7 miles from the trailhead to the lake
  Trail Use Type: hiking, equestrian
  Highlights: Wildflowers, a lovely lake and an alpine cirque 
  Considerations: Food storage order, Leave No Trace, dogs/human wildlife interactions, high use, alpine vegetation
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass for the trailhead, self-issue wilderness permit
  Current Conditions/Notes: Logged out completely in 2025. Currently under snow (03/01/2026)

• West Fork of the Pasayten #472 - 17 miles from Slate Pass to Holman Pass
  Trail Use Type: hiking, equestrian
  Highlights: Solitude in a green drainge
  Considerations: Food storage order, Leave No Trace, dogs/human wildlife interactions
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass for the trailhead, self-issue wilderness permit
  Current Conditions/Notes: Logged out sporadically but cleared in 2025 by PNTA volunteers. Currently under snow (03/01/2026)

There are several options for recreating in and around the Town of Winthrop. Methow Trails and Methow Cycle and Sport offer great resources for summer trails accessible from town. On the Methow Ranger District, Wolf Creek near Winthrop trail accesses the Gardner group, the iconic mountains looming over town’s Old West main street. There are several lodging options in Winthrop, all with great access to trails just outside of town. Virginian, North Cascade Mountain Hostel, and Sun Mountain Lodge offer access to the network of trails out of the Chickadee Trailhead. 

Winthrop 

• Lewis Butte/Riser Lake5-mile round trip loop up Louis, and a 3.75 loop at Riser
  Trail Use Type: hiking, equestrian, biking
  Highlights: valley views, wildflowers in the spring, and excellent birding
  Considerations: Leave No Trace, dogs/human wildlife interactions, multi-use trail etiquette. This portion of the Methow Wildlife Area is closed from December 15th to April 1st. Dogs must be on leash from April 1st to July 31st.Pass type: Discover Pass
  Current Conditions/Notes: Currently under snow, but melting quickly. Closed to use until April 1st.

• Meadowlark- 2.5 mile loop
  Trail Use Type: hiking
  Highlights: valley views, wildflowers in the spring, and excellent birding
  Considerations: Leave No Trace, dogs/human wildlife interactions, multi-use trail etiquette. The Meadowlark Trail is closed to the public during the month of March each year.
  Pass type: None
  Current Conditions/Notes: Currently under snow, but melting quickly. Closed to use from March 1st to April 1st.

• Buck Mountain- 9.5 mile loop
  Trail Use Type: hiking, equestrian, biking
  Highlights: valley views, wildflowers in the spring, a new trailhead
  Considerations: Leave No Trace, dogs/human wildlife interactions, multi-use trail etiquette, cattle, so close the gates behind yourself
  Pass type: none needed at the Methow Trails trailhead.
  Current Conditions/Notes: Trail logged out in 2025. Currently under snow (03/01/2025)

• Wolf Creek #527 - 11.5 miles from the trailhead to Gardner Meadows
  Trail Use Type: hiking, equestrian
  Highlights: solitude, post-fire succession forest, and a stunning reward at Gardner Meadows
  Considerations: Food storage order, Leave No Trace, dogs/human wildlife interactions
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or a day pass
  Current Conditions/Notes: Trail logged out to meadows in 2025. Trails in the Cedar Creek burn are experiencing heavy blowdown over the last few seasons, so expect lots of trees if you venture out before the trail crews. Currently under snow (03/01/2026)

Chewuch River Drainage

Those interested in a Wilderness excursion can find solitude up the Chewuch River Road. There are options for road or gravel biking loops along the East and West Chewuch roads, short day hikes, and some long trails into the heart of the Pasayten Wilderness. The closest accommodation to many of these trails is at the Chewack River Ranch.

The following three trails are accessed via the Eight Mile Road (FSR 5130)

• ‍Copper Glance #519‍ - 3 miles from the trailhead to the lake
  Trail Use Type: hiking
  Highlights: a historic mine along the trail and a stunning alpine lake in a beautiful cirque. Access to off trail scrambles.
  Considerations: Leave No Trace, dogs/human wildlife interactions
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass
  Current Conditions/Notes: Trail logged out to the lake in 2025. Currently under snow (03/01/2026)

• Larch Creek Trail‍ #502- a sixteen-mile trail into the Pasayten Wilderness
  Trail Use Type: hiking, equestrian
  Highlights: a beautiful trail that traverses the Pasayten high country and provides several options for backpacking loops
  Considerations: Food storage order, Leave No Trace, dogs/human wildlife interactions
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass self-issue Wilderness Permit at the trailhead
  Current Conditions/Notes: Trail logged out in 2025. The Drake Creek Connector #502A has seen significant work over the past few years, but remains stock impassible as of 2026. Currently under snow (03/01/2026)

• Hidden Lakes Trail #477- a sixteen-mile trail into the Pasayten Wilderness
  Trail Use Type: hiking, equestrian
  Highlights: a trail that accesses the heart of the Pasayten Wilderness and a stunning chain of lakes with interesting history.

• Considerations: Food Storage Order, Leave No Trace, dogs/human wildlife interactions
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass self-issue Wilderness Permit
  Current Conditions/Notes: Trail logged out to the Drake Creek junction in 2025. The Drake Creek Connector #502A has seen some significant work over the past few years, but is still stock impassible as of 2026. We have received reports of hundreds of blowdowns across the trail from where work stopped in 2025 to the Lake, so expect slow travel. The trail north of Big Hidden Lake is not maintained, and the Tatoosh Buttes trail has not been logged out from this side since 2022. Currently under snow (03/01/2026)

Trails below are accessed via the West Chewuch road and are described from South to North

• Falls Creek #518- A short out and back
  Trail Use Type: hiking, ADA
  Highlights: a short paved trail to a scenic waterfall. There is an unmaintained trail that continues past the falls for the adventurous
  Considerations: Leave No Trace, dogs/human wildlife interactions
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass
  Current Conditions/Notes: Currently under snow, but still accessible for a long walk from eight mile snow park (0301/2026)

• Crystal Lake #517 Unmaintained
  Trail Use Type: hiking
  Highlights: solitude for those willing to work for it
  Considerations: Food storage order, Leave No Trace, dogs/human wildlife interactions
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass, self-issue wilderness permit
  Current Conditions/Notes: Trail is unmaintained except for rough, slow travel. Currently under snow (03/01/2026)

• Lake Creek #500 - 4.5 miles from the trailhead to Black Lake. The trail beyond is unmaintained
  Trail Use Type: hiking, equestrian
  Highlights: a moderate hike to a big lake that melts out early, a good option for visitors interested in a short visit to the Wilderness
  Considerations: Food storage order, Leave No Trace, dogs/human wildlife interactions
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass, self-issue wilderness permit
  Current Conditions/Notes: Logged out to Black Lake in 2025. The trail is moderately brushy, and crews have been working to address this. There is a stock impassible rock slide along the lake shore trail. The trail beyond Black Lake is not maintained. Under the snow (03/01/2026)

• Andrews Creek #504 - 16 miles one-way
  Trail Use Type: Hiking and equestrian
  Highlights: a thoroughfare into the Pasayten Wilderness and the most direct route to the Cathedral Range
  Considerations: Food storage order, Leave No Trace, dogs/human wildlife interactions
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass, self-issue wilderness permit
  Current Conditions/Notes: Fully logged out in 2025. The trail is moderately brushy and crews have been working to address this. Currently under snow (03/01/2026)

• Chewuch #510 - 10 miles from the trailhead to the junction with Tungsten trail #534
  Trail Use Type: hiking, equestrian
  Highlights: a thoroughfare into the Pasayten Wilderness offering a day hike to Chewuch Falls, an option for a lollipop backpacking trip, and several other options for solitude.
  Considerations: Food storage order, Leave No Trace, dogs/human wildlife interactions.
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass, self-issue wilderness permit
  Current Conditions/Notes: Fully logged out in 2025.  Currently under snow (03/01/2026)

The trail below is accessed off the East Chewuch Rd. There are several other options for road walks along the East Chewuch Rd and FS 37, but this is the only trail on the Methow Ranger District that is regularly maintained. Trails in the Tiffany area are managed by the Tonasket Ranger District.

• North 20 Mile Trail #560 - 6.5 miles from the trailhead to the summit.
  Trail Use Type: hiking, equestrian
  Highlights: a steep hike that rewards the dedicated with an impressive summit and historic fire lookout.
  Considerations: Leave No Trace, dogs/human wildlife interactions It’s easiest to access this trail by driving the West Chewuch Rd to Camp Four Campground, crossing the Chewuch River there, then making a short back track South to FR 700.
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass.
  Current Conditions/Notes: Fully logged out by a dedicated crew of volunteers in 2025. Currently under snow (03/01/2026)

Running West from the town of Twisp, the Twisp River drainage has several trails leading into the Chelan Sawtooth Wilderness. These trails make wonderful day hikes, short backpacking trips, or day rides for equestrians. Those interested in a cross-country mountain bike ride should check out the Twisp River Trail, which is accessible from Twisp River Road at several points, offering shuttle opportunities. These trails are generally less crowded than others in the Methow, but you can expect company, especially during the fall larch season. Much of the Twisp River drainage lies within the Crescent Mountain burn scar, which has experienced significant blowdown over the last three years. You may experience some downfall across the trail, even if it is listed as logged out. There are Forest Service campgrounds in the Twisp River, or consider staying at the Twisp River Inn, which is close to many trails. Trails are described from Twisp, driving West up Twisp River Road.

• Lookout Mountain Trail #412 - 1.3 miles from the trailhead to the summit
  Trail Use Type: hiking, equestrian, though trailers may be challenging on the long drive
  Highlights: Scenic views of the Methow Valley, wildflowers in the spring, and a historic fire lookout
  Considerations: Leave No Trace, human wildlife interactions
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass
  Current Conditions: Logged out in 2025. Currently under snow. (03/01/2026)

Trailheads below are on the South side of Twisp River and are described from East to West

• Twisp River Trail #440 - 14 miles from the trailhead to Roads End, with several access points along Twisp River Road
  Trail Use Type: hiking, equestrian, mountain biking
  Highlights: a gently meandering trail through wildflowers in the spring
  Considerations: LNT, shared trail etiquette, human wildlife interactions
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass
  Current Conditions: Logged out in 2025, though a wind storm brought several trees down later in the season. Expect significant blowdown before trail crews make it out. Currently under snow. (03/01/2026)

• West Fork Buttermilk #411 - 11.5 miles from the trailhead to Fish Creek Pass.
  Trail Use Type: hiking, equestrian
  Highlights: A well-graded trail through moderate burn. Fish Creek Pass and Star Lake have stunning larches in the fall.
  Considerations: Food storage order, Leave No Trace, human wildlife interactions
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass
  Current Conditions: Logged out in 2025. Currently under snow. (03/01/2026)

• East Fork Buttermilk #420 - 9.5 miles from the trailhead to HooDoo Pass.
  Trail Use Type: hiking, equestrian
  Highlights: Access to HooDoo Pass and Boiling Lake, but not maintained regularly, so expect solitude, blowdowns, and rough travel
  Considerations: Food storage order, Leave No Trace, human wildlife interactions
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass
  Current Conditions: Not logged out annually, expect significant blowdowns and rough travel. Currently under snow. (03/01/2026)

• Eagle Creek Trail#410- 7.3 miles from the trailhead to Eagle Pass
  Trail Use Type: hiking, equestrian, mountain biking
  Highlights: Silver Lake at the halfway point, larches in the fall, and opportunities for a backcountry loop along the Sawtooth Crest
  Considerations: Food storage order, Leave No Trace, human wildlife interactions 
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass
  Current Conditions: Logged out in 2025, and burned sections took several trips to clear. Expect moderate blowdown before trail crews make it out. Currently under snow. (03/01/2026)

• Oval Creek Trail#410A- 7 miles from the trail junction to Oval Lakes, accessed via Eagle Creek
  Trail Use Type: hiking, equestrian, 
  Highlights: Accesses the stunning Oval Lakes and larches in the fall
  Considerations: Food storage order, Leave No Trace, human wildlife interactions
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass
  Current Conditions: Logged out in 2025, but portions of the trail affected by the 2018 Crescent Fire took several trips to clear. Expect moderate blowdown before trail crews make it out. Currently under snow. (03/01/2026)

• War Creek #408- 9.5 miles from the trailhead to Purple Pass
  Trail Use Type: hiking, equestrian 
  Highlights: War Creek cabin at the trails' halfway point, access to Stehekin and the Sawtooth Crest
  Considerations: Food storage order, Leave No Trace
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass
  Current Conditions: Logged out in 2025, crews reported significant brush. There is a washout on the War Creek road, but a stock-accessible trail has been established through it. There are no current plans to repair the road. Currently under snow. (03/01/2026)

• Williams Creek #407- 7 miles from the trailhead to Williams Lake
  Trail Use Type: hiking, equestrian 
  Highlights: a gradual trail to a lovely lake
  Considerations: Food storage order, Leave No Trace
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass
  Current Conditions: First three miles logged out in 2025. Beyond was logged out in 2024. Expect moderate blowdowns if you’re attempting this trail before trail crews make it in. Currently under snow. (03/01/2026)

• Reynolds Creek #402- 10 miles from the trailhead to the pass, unmaintained.
  Trail Use Type: hiking, equestrian 
  Highlights: solitude and access to a truly remote high peak
  Considerations: Food storage order, Leave No Trace
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass
  Current Conditions: The trail has not been maintained in years. Expect slow travel through many blowdowns. Currently under snow. (03/01/2026)

• South Creek/Louis Lake#428- 5 miles from the trailhead to Louis Lake. The South Creek trail crosses private property at milepost 2.5 and is closed to public access
  Trail Use Type: hiking, equestrian 
  Highlights: A well-graded trail to a large lake, wildflowers seemingly year-round
  Considerations: Food storage order, Leave No Trace
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass
  Current Conditions: Logged out in 2025. MVTC built a major bridge crossing South Creek in 2023. Currently under snow. (03/01/2026)

The following trials are on the North side of the Twisp River. They are described from East to West, from Twisp to Road’s End. 

• Slate Creek#414- 6 miles from the trailhead to Slate Lake
  Trail Use Type: hiking, equestrian 
  Highlights: A steep trail that leads to a ridgeline and a high lake.
  Considerations: food storage order, Leave No Trace
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass
  Current Conditions: Logged out in 2025. Currently under snow. (03/01/2026)

• Scatter Creek #427- 4.6 miles from the trailhead to Scatter Lake
  Trail Use Type: hiking, equestrian 
  Highlights: A steep trail that leads to a deep blue lake and Aberathy peak beyond
  Considerations: Food storage order, Leave No Trace
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass
  Current Conditions: Logged out in 2025. This trail can get quite brushy. MVTC staff and volunteers cut back the first two and a half miles in 2025. Currently under snow. (03/01/2026)

• North Lake Trail #413- 5 miles from the trailhead to North Lake
  Trail Use Type: hiking, equestrian 
  Highlights: A gradual trail to an alpine cirque and lake, open views throughout.
  Considerations: Food storage order, Leave No Trace
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass
  Current Conditions: Logged out in 2025. Currently under snow. (03/01/2026)

• Twisp Pass #432- 4.5 miles from the trailhead to Twisp Pass
  Trail Use Type: hiking, equestrian 
  Highlights: Alpine views for most of the trail, access to Stiletto Lake
  Considerations: Food storage order, alpine vegetation, Leave No Trace, human-wildlife interaction. Dogs are not permitted at Stiletto Lake, part of the North Cascade National Park
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass
  Current Conditions: Logged out in 2025. Currently under snow. (03/01/2026)

• Copper Pass #426- 5.4 miles to pass from the trailhead to the pass. This trail begins off of the Twisp Pass trail at the North Fork Twisp River crossing
  Trail Use Type: hiking, equestrian 
  Highlights: solitude, and an alpine pass
  Considerations: Food storage order, alpine vegetation, Leave No Trace, human-wildlife interaction. 
  Pass type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass

  Current Conditions: Not fully logged out in several years. Efforts have been made on the first mile of the trail from the North Fork of the Twisp River. Expect many blowdowns if accessing Copper Pass via this route. Currently under snow. (03/01/2026)

Located on State Route 20 between Twisp and Okanogan, the Loup Loup area has many trail options for hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, and dirt bike riding. In the Winter, the South Summit Snow Park also offers over 40 kilometers of groomed Nordic ski trails and groomed snowmobile routes. Just remember your snow park pass. Those interested in staying overnight can camp at the Loup Loup Campground, book a stay at the Cassia Lodge, near the turnoff for Upper Beaver Creek Road, or lodge on the East side of the county. The Loup Loup area also offers a stunning fall display of Western Larch trees, which often turn yellow a few weeks after the Mountain Larches in other areas of the Ranger District. 

The following two trails are accessed via the Upper Beaver Creek road. This area provides access to a wide array of forest service roads and connected multi-use single-track trails.

• Lightning Creek #425 - 4.5 miles from the trailhead to FSR-130, then 1.5 miles of road riding connects to another mile of single track connecting FSR-100 to FSR-4235
  Trail Use Type: hiking, equestrian, mountain biking, motorcycle riding
  Highlights: a unique single-track trail that connects to a network of FS roads and trails, providing opportunities for long loops
  Considerations: Leave No Trace, dogs/human wildlife interactions, shared use trail etiquette. Keep an eye out for rattlesnakes in the area, and please close all gates in open range.
  Pass type: No pass required for this trailhead; however, if you park at the WDFW-managed Beaver Meadows campground, then a Discover Pass is required.
  Current Conditions/Notes: Trail logged in 2025. MVTC replaced a trail bridge crossing the Middle Fork of Beaver Creek in 2022. Currently under snow, but melting quickly.

• Blue Buck #421 - 2.8 miles from the trail junction to FSR 400, then another 4.6 miles to the trail's terminus at the Golden Staircase trail # 534
  Trail Use Type: hiking, equestrian, mountain biking, motorcycle riding
  Highlights: a unique single-track trail that connects to a network of FS roads and trails, providing opportunities for long loops, including riding in Beaver Meadows and the Golden Staircase. This trail starts 1.5 miles up the Lightning Creek trail
  Considerations: Leave No Trace, dogs/human wildlife interactions, shared use trail etiquette. Keep an eye out for rattlesnakes in the area, and please close all gates in open range.
  Pass type: No pass required for this trailhead; however, if you park at the WDFW-managed Beaver Meadows campground, then a Discover Pass is required.
  Current Conditions/Notes: Trail logged in 2025. MVTC replaced a trail bridge crossing the Middle Fork of Beaver Creek in 2022. The upper trail can be brushy but Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance and Trans Cascadia accomplished significant deferred brushing in 2023. Currently under snow, but melting quickly. (03/01/2026)

The trails below are accessed from the summit of Loup Loup Pass

• North Summit Trails - a network of trails in development by the Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance and Methow Valley Ranger District.
  Trail Use Type: mountain biking, equestrian. Check trail maps to ensure you're riding appropriate trails for your designated use type.
  Highlights: a new trail system with flowy single track for mountain biking and designated equestrian routes. A later larch season than on the SR-20 corridor
  Considerations: Leave No Trace, dogs/human wildlife interactions, shared use trail etiquette. 
  Pass type: No pass required for this trailhead
  Current Conditions/Notes: Check trail forks for the most up-to-date conditions. Currently under snow. (03/01/2026)

• Bear Mountain #442 - a 2.4-mile single track often ridden as a figure 8 loop with FS roads
  Trail Use Type: hiking, equestrian, mountain biking
  Highlights: a unique single-track trail that connects to a network of FS roads and trails, Larches in the fall
  Considerations: Leave No Trace, dogs/human wildlife interactions, shared use trail etiquette. 
  Pass type: No pass required for this trailhead
  Current Conditions/Notes: Trail logged in 2025 by Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance. Currently under snow. (03/01/2026)

• Beaver Lake #356 - 1 mile from the trailhead to the lake
  Trail Use Type: hiking, equestrian
  Highlights: a short out and back to a lake, post fire recovery forest
  Considerations: Leave No Trace, dogs/human wildlife interactions
  Pass type: No pass required for this trailhead
  Current Conditions/Notes: Trail logged in 2025. Currently under snow. (03/01/2026)

There are some incredible recreational opportunities in the lower valley. The most notable network of trails is the Sawtooth Backcountry, which is open to multiple uses, including mountain bikes and motorized dirt bike riding! This network accesses some gorgeous alpine terrain for all users and is maintained each year, once the snow melts, by dedicated local riders. Check out this map by Evergreen or this map from the USFS to determine which trails are open to different use types if you are planning a trip. It's possible to encounter all sorts of users in the Sawtooth Backcountry, so practice responsible recreation and share the trails!

• Libby Creek, Trail No. 415 - 5.1 miles one-way
  Trail Use Type: Hiking, Backpacking, Equestrian.
  Highlights: The trail starts high, and stays high, gaining spectacular views and larches in the fall. Libby Lake is in a gorgeous alpine basin, and the adventurous can climb nearby Hoodoo Peak.
  Considerations: Leave No Trace, Food Storage, Multi-Use Trail Etiquette
  Trailhead: Libby Lake TH
  Pass Type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass
  Current Conditions/Notes: Logged out in 2025. Currently under snow. (03/01/2026)
  

• Crater Creek, Trail No. 416 - 4.1 miles one-way
  Trail Use Type: Hiking, Backpacking, Equestrian, Mountain Biking
  Highlights: Crater Creek Trail leads to a pair of beautiful alpine lakes. These lakes are surrounded by steep, rocky slopes littered with larches. In the fall, this area glows gold, earning the nickname of the “Golden Lakes”.
  Considerations: Leave No Trace, Food Storage, Multi-Use Trail Etiquette, High Use (Fall)
  Trailhead: Crater Creek TH
  Pass Type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass
  Current Conditions/Notes: Logged out in 2025. Currently under snow. (03/01/2026)
  

• Eagle Lakes, Trail No. 431 - 5.6 miles one-way (to Boiling Lake)
  Trail Use Type: Hiking, Backpacking, Equestrian, Mountain Biking, Moto/Dirtbike
  Highlights: this trail takes one on a stunning journey through lush forests, wildflower-filled meadows, and dramatic alpine terrain leading to the pristine Eagle Lakes. The upper lake in particular, with the steep and rugged flanks of Mt. Bigelow giving way to the larch lined shores. A great hike for both summer and fall!
  Considerations: Leave No Trace, Food Storage, Multi-Use Trail Etiquette
  Trailhead: Crater Creek TH
  Pass Type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass
  Current Conditions/Notes: Spur trails to both upper and lower Eagle Lakes are closed to moto/dirtbikes. Logged out in 2025. Currently under snow. (03/01/2026)
  

• Martin Creek, Trail No. 429 - 6.2 miles one-way,  (add 2.3 miles from Crater Creek TH)
  Trail Use Type: Hiking, Equestrian, Mountain Biking, Moto/Dirtbike
  Highlights: this popular connector trail connects the Foggy Dew Creek Trail to the Eagle Creek Trail, providing multi-use access to Martin Lakes and Cooney Lake.
  Considerations: Leave No Trace, Food Storage, Multi-Use Trail Etiquette
  Trailhead: Crater Creek TH
  Pass Type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass
  Current Conditions/Notes: Logged out in 2025. Currently under snow. (03/01/2026)
  

• Cooney Lake, Trail No. 434 - .8 miles one-way
  Trail Use Type: Hiking, Backpacking, Equestrian, Mountain Biking
  Highlights: Cooney Lake, set at the base of Switchback Mountain and surrounded by larch trees makes this a beautiful and popular destination, especially in the fall. This multi-use trail leads to the northern shore of the lake to then up the intersection of Angels Staircase #1259.21
  Considerations: Leave No Trace, Food Storage, Multi-Use Trail Etiquette
  Trailhead: Crater Creek TH or Foggy Dew TH
  Pass Type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass
  Current Conditions/Notes: There is a public-use highline set up for equestrian users. The horse camp just off the Martin Creek Trail junction also has a highline set up. Logged out in 2025. Currently under snow. (03/01/2026)

• Foggy Dew Creek Trail No. 417 - 8.5 miles one-way (to Trail No. 1259 jct.)
  Trail Use Type: Hiking, Equestrian, Mountain Biking, Moto/Dirtbike
  Highlights: Leading past two waterfalls along Foggy Dew Creek, this multi-use trail gives access to Merchants Basin and Sunrise Lake as well as the beautiful larch shores of Cooney Lake via the Martin Creek Trail #429 and Cooney Lake Trail #434.
  Considerations: Leave No Trace, Food Storage, Multi-Use Trail Etiquette
  Trailhead: Foggy Dew TH
  Pass Type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass
  Current Conditions/Notes: Logged out in 2025. Currently under snow. (03/01/2026)
  

• Foggy Dew Ridge, Trail No. 438 - 6.7 miles one-way
  Trail Use Type: Hiking, Equestrian, Mountain Biking, Moto/Dirtbike
  Highlights: Largely used as a moto/dirt bike trail, this trail climbs Foggy Dew ridge and offers views south of the Navarre peaks and north to the Hunter Creek drainage, eventually linking up with the Martin Creek Trail #429.
  Considerations: Leave No Trace, Food Storage, Multi-Use Trail Etiquette
  Trailhead: N/A, Forest Road No. 200
  Pass Type: Not needed if parking on road
  Current Conditions/Notes. Logged out in 2025. Currently under snow. (03/01/2026)
  

• Navarre Way Trail No. #424 - 1.8 miles one-way
  Trail Use Type: Hiking, Equestrian, Mountain Biking, Moto/Dirtbike
  Highlights: Largely used as a moto/dirt bike trail, this trail climbs from the Foggy Dew trail No. 417 to the Summer Blossom Trail No.1258 jct.
  Considerations: Leave No Trace, Food Storage, Multi-Use Trail Etiquette
  Trailhead: Foggy Dew TH
  Pass Type: America The Beautiful, Northwest Forest Pass, or day pass
  Current Conditions/Notes. Logged out in 2025. Currently under snow. (03/01/2026)