Icicle Road
This trail is actually the end section of Icicle River Road that is left unplowed in the winter months. It is fun for snowshoers of all ages and skill levels. The trail slowly ascends its way up the Icicle Creek Valley, offering impressive views of Grindstone Mountain and the meandering, peaceful Icicle Creek. From the parking area, strap on your snowshoes and continue on Icicle Road for as long or as short as you like. This isn’t a loop trail nor does it really “lead” to anywhere in particular. The trail simply meanders alongside the creek, gently rising and falling with occasional mountain views. This trail is used by snowshoers, skiers, snowmobilers, even dogsledders. It is not plowed but the snowmobilers do a great job of breaking trail for their fellow skiers. 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. The valley is aptly named as you can see the huge icicles hanging from steep cliffs that line the road.
Directions to Trailhead
Follow US Highway 2 West through the town of Leavenworth and go left at the end of town on Icicle Road (following signs to the Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery, there is a large gas station at the corner). If you are traveling Eastbound on Highway 2 over Stevens Pass go right on Icicle Road when you first enter Leavenworth. Follow Icicle Road for 8.5 miles to the road end. Park with the rest of the cars.
