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. 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.