LEAVENWORTH, WASHINGTON
Summer Trails in Leavenworth
GET READY FOR A HIKE IN LEAVENWORTH WASHINGTON
PICK BY FEEL
With hundreds of miles of forest and mountain trails to walk, bike, backpack, run, or ride, you can bop ‘til you drop around Leavenworth. There are trails offered by local businesses and groups, as well as trails managed by the United States Forest Service. USFS trails vary in length and difficulty so contact the Leavenworth Ranger District (509-548-2550), Forest Service’s Recreation Report, for detailed information.
1-3 HOURS
Icicle River Nature Trail
This is a fun trail for walking and learning about the spectacular Icicle River Valley and the Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery.
1 mi~1 hrEasyFish Hatchery
This is a fun trail for walking and learning about the spectacular Icicle River Valley and the Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery. Be sure to pick up the interpretive brochure before heading out on the trail. This gentle trail can be used by the entire family, and the wide paths and level surfaces make it easy to bring a stroller or wheelchair along with you. Bring your dog along to join you on this nature trail, but be sure to keep them on a leash and always clean up after them. You can complete the perimeter of this trail in under an hour, but if you’d like to walk for longer, there are different paths intersecting the center of the trail that you can also explore.
The hatchery releases over one million salmon per year. It’s one of the best areas to learn about Northwest Salmon, river ecology, and the role of fish hatcheries in our state. The native name for Icicle Creek was Nasikelt. As pronounced this name sounds very similar to Icicle. Legend has it that early pioneers mistook the proper native name and interpreted it as Icicle. The name Icicle was established by USGS maps in the early 1900s.
Pets must be on leash.
This location is also host to nordic ski and snowshoe trails in winter.
Dogs on leash · Free in summer
Ski Hill Hiking Trails
A nice ‘trail’ system following dirt roads through the forests.
1-6 mi1+ hrsEasySki Hill
A nice ‘trail’ system following dirt roads through the forests. The many looping double track trails in this small tract of Forest Service-owned land winds through forests over rolling terrain and climbs gently to offer a few views of Leavenworth. There are about 6 miles of double-track trail, which is great to get out for a walk or go explore with your dog. Walk a variety of loop trails for shorter distances, or walk all of them for the full workout. In addition, there are “steeper” narrower trails that are also used for mountain biking. Watch for bikers around these narrow trails.
The Ski Hill ‘trails’ are popular places to walk, run, and mountain bike for three-season use. Once snow-covered the roads are used for Nordic skiing in winter and are part of the groomed trail system maintained by the Leavenworth Winter Sports Club.
The trails/roads are free to use for three-season use but you need a day pass or season’s pass to ski them in winter.
Visit skileavenworth.com/activities/bike-trails for more details.
Dogs on leash · Free in summer
Waterfront Park Trail
Waterfront Park Trail is one of Leavenworth’s best kept secrets.
2 mi~1 hrEasyDowntown
Waterfront Park Trail is one of Leavenworth’s best kept secrets. The trails wind along the Wenatchee River and through quiet riverbank forests. There are benches for sitting and interpretive signs to explain the natural and cultural history of the area. Throughout the park there are small beach inlets that are perfect for swimming on hot summer days. This has also been reported to be a great birding site in the Spring or a place to spot salmon making their upstream journey in the Fall. The trail is accessible from downtown Leavenworth. The trail is completely flat so you can just relax and enjoy the views.
Dogs allowed · No pass needed
Hidden Lake
If you have enough M&Ms with you, you can probably coax your kids up this short trail.
1.5 mi~1 hrEasyLake Wenatchee
If you have enough M&Ms with you, you can probably coax your kids up this short trail. The lake is surrounded by thick forest and brambles. There are no views to speak of but the massive Ponderosa pines will take your breath away. The lake can be crowded during the summer season with hikers and people pretending to catch fish. The water is nice for a swim by mid-summer. Take care to return on the correct trail; an alternate route descends steeply to the Glacier View Campground at road’s end.
Dogs on leash · NW Forest Pass
Bygone Byways
This short interpretive trail follows the original route of the Great Northern Railway.
1.3 mi~1 hrEasyStevens Pass
This short interpretive trail follows the original route of the Great Northern Railway. The trail stays in forest most of the way and skirts the perimeter of Nason Creek. The trail is flat and well marked. There are interpretive brochures & kiosk at the trailhead to help explain the natural and cultural history of the area.
Dogs on leash · No pass needed
Penstock Trail
The Penstock, now on the National Historical Register, was a huge water pipe used to deliver water to a powerhouse located where the parking lot is now.
2.4 mi~1 hrEasyTumwater Canyon
The Penstock, now on the National Historical Register, was a huge water pipe used to deliver water to a powerhouse located where the parking lot is now. The electricity powered electrical engines which pulled trains through the Cascade Tunnel at Stevens Pass. Prior to this the coal-fired engines caused problems with asphixation. In Chinook jargon, the word tumwater means “rough water.” If you view the raging waters of the Wenatchee River in Tumwater Canyon during the spring and early summer, it’s easy to understand how this canyon got it’s name. Note: this trail is sometimes flooded in the spring due to the high volume of water in the river.
Dogs on leash · NW Forest Pass
Icicle Gorge Loop
A gentle loop trail that traverses both banks of the Icicle River.
3.9 mi~2 hrsEasyIcicle Canyon
A gentle loop trail that traverses both banks of the Icicle River. A great trail for those that want to experience the magic of the Icicle Valley without having to grunt up and down significant elevation gains. One side of the river is dry and sparsely vegetated while the other is a canopied forest. Guess which one is south facing and getting the most sun? Mid-way through the hike you will cross a bridge over roaring waters. Take a minute to relax here and enjoy the cool breeze generated by this roaring, surprisingly powerful creek. The native name for Icicle Creek was Nasikelt. As pronounced this name sounds very similar to Icicle. Legend has it that early pioneers mistook the proper native name and interpreted it as Icicle. The name Icicle was established by USGS maps in the early 1900s.
Dogs on leash · NW Forest Pass
Lanham Lake
This forested lake is not the most spectacular hike in the area but it’s a fun jaunt for family picnics.
3.2 mi~2 hrsEasyStevens Pass
This forested lake is not the most spectacular hike in the area but it’s a fun jaunt for family picnics. Part of the hike goes under power lines which make an eerie noise like sizzling bacon. The trail is steep and hot so bring water and be sure to have a healthy supply of treats to get your kids to the top. From the Stevens Pass Nordic Center find the Lanham Lake Trail at the main parking area. The trail is easy to follow and well defined. Legend has it that this lake was named after a prospector with the last name of Lanham. In the early 1900’s there was a trail leading up to a prospect hole along Lanham Creek. It’s suspected that Lanham never got very rich from this claim as the creek was never a very productive mineral source.
Dogs on leash · NW Forest Pass
This trail goes one way, up. It can be hiked for as long or as short as you like. The natural turnaround point is two miles into the hike at a small flat spot on the ridgetop. This is a good spot to eat your lunch, enjoy the views and rub Icy Hot on your aching thighs. The trail keeps going after this point but you have to go a long way to get better views. For those looking for views into the Leavenworth Valley, you can climb this trail for about a half mile and get a splendid overview into town.
Dogs on leash · No pass needed
4-6 HOURS
Merritt Lake
This is a wonderful hike to a delightful alpine lake surrounded by steep mountains and fields filled with whistling marmots (sometimes they’re shy though).
5.5 mi~4 hrsModerateColes Corner
This is a wonderful hike to a delightful alpine lake surrounded by steep mountains and fields filled with whistling marmots (sometimes they’re shy though). This trail is steep and dry with some exposed areas, so bring lots of water and sunscreen. The lake can be quite buggy in the summer so bring your bug juice, too. Climb up Merritt Lake Trail #1588 steeply for 2.5 miles to a junction. Go right (the left trail leads to Rock Lake). The trail begins to flatten somewhat here. Another 0.5 miles and you’ll reach the lake. This lake was named after the town of Merritt, which was one of the first Eastern Cascade stops for the Great Northern Railway. In 1937, the town of Merritt had a railroad station, a post office, one hotel, a service station, and three recorded farms. Locals used to picnic and fish at the lake. Still do.
Dogs on leash · No pass needed
Alpine Lookout
This trail offers splendid views of Nason Ridge, The Stuart Range and DirtyFace Peak.
10.5 mi~5 hrsDifficultColes Corner
This trail offers splendid views of Nason Ridge, The Stuart Range and DirtyFace Peak. The views are best from the Alpine Lookout (an active staffed fire lookout at the top of the mountain). You don’t even have to work that hard for these views – comparatively speaking of course. Follow the Round Mountain Trail #1529 for 1.6 miles to where it intersects with Nason Ridge Trail #1583. Go left on #1583. Here the trail follows the ridge line up and down 5.2 miles from the trailhead you will reach the lookout. Bring lots of water with you; this is a dry, hot trail and there is not water available at the lookout. The views from the lookout are well worth lugging your camera up the trail with you.
Dogs on leash · NW Forest Pass
This trail only goes one way, up! Get ready to feel your thighs thump as you work your way up to better and better views. The hard work is well worth it though, as you reach the lake. This is one of the most scenic alpine lakes in the area that is accessible within a days climb. The lake was named after Grecian heroes and when you get to the lake you’ll know why. The wind-blasted rock that surrounds the lakes reminds one of the salty cliffs found throughout the Greek coast. Lots of great views and swimming opportunities on top. Take your time, explore the foothills, and praise to Zeus and the rest of the gang for such a spectacular setting.
Dogs on leash · No pass needed
Ingalls Creek
Tucked along the sunny south side of the mighty Stuart Range, Ingalls Creek Trail #1215 wanders up one of the prettiest valleys in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, keeping its namesake creek close the whole way.
11 mi~5–6 hrsModerateSpring wildflowers
Tucked along the sunny south side of the mighty Stuart Range, Ingalls Creek Trail #1215 wanders up one of the prettiest valleys in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, keeping its namesake creek close the whole way. Because the trailhead sits low at about 1,900 feet, this valley wakes up early — late spring brings rushing whitewater, a beloved wildflower show (including a few uncommon blooms) and maybe even elk in the meadows, while the high country is still buried in snow.
The full trail runs 15.5 miles one-way and gains 4,400 feet on its way to Stuart Pass, but there’s no need to be a hero: the lower miles climb on a famously gentle grade past big pines, boulder fields, granite cliffs and pockets of old-growth, and any turnaround makes a great day. A favorite goal is the gravel bar where Falls Creek joins in, about 5.5 miles up (11 miles round trip). Backpackers will find creekside campsites all along the route.
Fill out the free self-issue wilderness permit at the trailhead, keep pups leashed (wilderness rules), and hang a Northwest Forest Pass or $5 day pass in the car. The trailhead is an easy 12-mile drive south of town.
Dogs on leash · NW Forest Pass + free self-issue wilderness permit
7-9 HOURS
Dirty Face Peak
This trail provides wonderful views into Lake Wenatchee and the Glacier Peak Wilderness.
9.5 mi~7 hrsDifficultLake Wenatchee
This trail provides wonderful views into Lake Wenatchee and the Glacier Peak Wilderness. The views come with a price though, the trail is steep, dry, and hot. The trail gains 4000 ft in 4 miles, ascending some 90 switchbacks. Bring lots of water, eat your Wheeties and don’t forget a camera. After about an hour into the hike you will come upon an old logging road. Follow it for about a half mile to its end where you will find the trail starts back up (and up, and up) again. There is an old fire lookout site at the top of DirtyFace which has now been reduced to a pile of rubble. How did this peak get such a distinguished name as DirtyFace? Legend has it that JS Barnard homesteaded at the base of the peak in the late 1800’s. He worked avidly clearing his land and burning brush day in and day out. Passers by often found him with a sweaty, soot covered face. He came to be known as “old dirtyface” and the peak behind his homestead stands as a testament to his nickname.
Dogs on leash · NW Forest Pass
Hatchery Creek
This trail is mostly a steady uphill climb that rewards with great views of the Wenatchee River and the surrounding mountains.
13 mi~8 hrsDifficultTumwater Canyon
This trail is mostly a steady uphill climb that rewards with great views of the Wenatchee River and the surrounding mountains. From the parking area, the Hatchery Creek Trail continues left, leading to alpine meadows at 5.5 miles. Continue another mile to the junction with Icicle Ridge Trail #1570. This is the turn-around point for hearty day hikers. For overnighters, turn right on Trail #1570 and continue for another 2.5 miles to Lake Augusta.
Dogs on leash · No pass needed
Spider Meadows
Perhaps one of the most spectacular high alpine meadow hikes in the Pacific Northwest.
12.5 mi~8 hrsDifficultChiwawa Valley
Perhaps one of the most spectacular high alpine meadow hikes in the Pacific Northwest. The most challenging part of the hike, may be the long car drive to the trailhead. But, the dirt road is in relatively good condition and the views as you work your way up the trail is reminiscent of the Swiss Alps. The trail begins at the gate in the road and rambles up, and over creeks and past tributary trails. Follow signs to Spider Creek. At 5.5 miles you will break out through the forest and begin to get glimpses of the meadows and the hanging cliffs of Red Mountain. Explore the trail from here as far as you like. In the earlier part of the season be sure to bring lots of bug repellant!
Dogs on leash · No pass needed
4th of July Creek
If you are looking for great views of the scenic Stuart Range, then this is a hike for you.
12 mi~9 hrsDifficultIcicle Canyon
If you are looking for great views of the scenic Stuart Range, then this is a hike for you. Get ready to work for the view though, as the hike is a long, dry and steady uphill grunt. If you decide not to go all the way to the top, you still can catch nice views about two miles into the hike. From the parking area the trail is easy to find. The climbing never really stops until you get to the ridge in about 6.5 miles. Bring lots of water and lots of sunscreen in the summer. The trail is dry and exposed.
Dogs on leash · No pass needed
PERMITS REQUIRED
Hiking the Enchantments
DAY HIKES IN THE PERMIT AREA
Colchuck Lake
9 mi round trip PERMIT AREAStuart Lake
9 mi round trip PERMIT AREAEightmile Lake
7 mi round trip PERMIT AREA
Mountain Biking & Cycling
Ski Hill MTB Trails
Connecting a series of trails that mountain bikers have worked to build for over 15 years, the Ski Hill Project represents a partnership between Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance and the USFS Wenatchee Ranger District that joins several stacked-loop trail concepts.
1-18 mi1+ hrsAll levelsSki Hill
Connecting a series of trails that mountain bikers have worked to build for over 15 years, the Ski Hill Project represents a partnership between Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance and the USFS Wenatchee Ranger District that joins several stacked-loop trail concepts. Ranging from green circles to black diamonds this progressive-level system offers great riding options for riders of all abilities.
In addition to working on current trails like Freund Canyon, Rosy Boa, and For the Boys, Evergreen Central crews are also constructing a new uphill trail (name TBD) that will connect to these existing routes and allow riders to enjoy 5-6 mile loops directly from the base of Ski Hill.
Additionally, Evergreen Central is in the process of working on the Ribbed trail, a downhill specific flow trail with man-made jumps. The Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance builds and maintains all of the trails at Ski Hill. The trails are multi-use so please be courteous to all trail users. For more info on the individual trails, visit https://skileavenworth.com/activities/bike-trails
Dogs on leash · Free in summer
Freund Canyon Loop
One of the best single-track trails in the Leavenworth Area.
8.3 mi~2 hrsDifficultFreund Canyon
One of the best single-track trails in the Leavenworth Area. This very skinny single track switchbacks straight up and then goes straight down with lots of fun jumping burms. Make sure to pause for a moment at the top and take in the beautiful panoramic views of the Leavenworth valley and the surrounding orchards. From the gate follow the dirt road to it’s end at 1.4 miles. Go around the right side of the large slash pile and curve around to the left (don’t climb up the slash pile). The single track trail begins on the other side of the slash pile. A little over 5 miles you will reach the top of the ridge. Drink some water, take in the views, rest your burning thighs. Stay to the left at the fork and begin the fast descent back to your car.
Dogs on leash · No pass needed
Nason Ridge
This is a thigh-pumping, brake-burning type of ride that no sane person would attempt if it were not for the awe-inspiring views at the top.
18 mi~3 hrsDifficultLake Wenatchee
This is a thigh-pumping, brake-burning type of ride that no sane person would attempt if it were not for the awe-inspiring views at the top. The trail is dry and hot so make sure that you have plenty of water for the journey and fill your belly with lots of carbos. From the trailhead, follow Nason Creek Trail #1583. After a short jaunt through the lakeside forest you will begin a grinding ascent. In 2 miles you will get glimpses of Lake Wenatchee and Fish Lake. At 2.6 miles, you reach an intersection. Go right following the trail signs up an old logging road. At 3.2 miles you will top out and begin descending. Alas, the descent does not last as soon you begin climbing again. Switchback your way up to Round Mountain which you will reach at 6 miles. This is an admirable turn-around point. You can continue further to a saddle in 9 miles, but only if you are true believer in finding pain in your gain. From Round Mountain, bear right to a series of thumping switchbacks. Ride all the way to the top of this ascent (at about 8.8 miles), catch your breath, take in the views, and eat a Power Bar. Turn around and get ready to test your brakes for an exciting descent back down to the car
Dogs on leash · No pass needed
Devil’s Gulch
Rock and roll at one of the most exciting single track trails in the area.
17.8 mi~5 hrsDifficultCashmere
Rock and roll at one of the most exciting single track trails in the area. The trail ranges between blood-curling downhill and thigh-burning climbs to grandiose views. The usual route is to head out on Devils Gulch Trail #1220 for the climb and loop back on Mission Ridge Trail #1201. For those seeking a more gentle climb, you can follow the dirt road #7100 past the parking area and continue on your bike on #7100 for about 10 miles then turn right on road #9712 for about a mile and watch for the trailhead to Devils Gulch Trail #1220. Either way you choose, bring lots of sunscreen and water.
Dogs on leash · NW Forest Pass
Mountain Home Road
This is a great Mountain Biking area because you can make your trip as short or as long as you like.
13 mi~5 hrsDifficultAbove town
This is a great Mountain Biking area because you can make your trip as short or as long as you like. The main loop follows Mountain Home Road to the top of a saddle and has great views of Wedge Mountain and the Enchantments. This is one of the areas most impacted by an immense forest fire in 1994. The contrast of colorful wildflowers spurting up around charred logs is spectacular. Once you find an appropriate parking spot, continue on Mountain Home Road. Shortly, the road will begin to climb. At the top of the climb you will get spectacular views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. The road soon joins a junction. Go left at this intersection towards Boundary Butte (road #500). Follow this road to the end and enjoy the 360 degree views of the Wenatchee River Valley. (Try to ignore the big radio transceiver at the top). On your way back down, go right on road #550 which loops back to Mountain Home Road.
Dogs on leash · No pass needed
