Basalt Ridge

Basalt Ridge stretches 8.5 miles along a high ridgeline connecting Basalt Peak (7,400 feet) and Garland Peak above the Chiwawa River valley. The trail leaves Finner Creek Campground and meanders through forest for the first mile before steepening sharply over the next several miles to gain the ridge. Once on top, the route follows a scenic ridgeline that passes through alternating burn areas and intact subalpine forest, with views opening across the Glacier Peak Wilderness and Chiwawa drainage.

Multiple access routes exist. The Finner Tie Trail from Finner Creek Campground is the most common approach, climbing the lower ridge directly. The Minnow Creek Trail and Basalt Pass Trail offer alternatives. The Wenatchee River Ranger District trail crew reopened access via Minnow Creek in 2023 after several years of blowdown closures, and cleared most of the lower Basalt Ridge trail except for one switchback section where hikers go briefly overland.

Water is scarce once you gain the ridge, so carry everything you need from the valley. The Chiwawa River Road approach (FR 6200) is 13.5 miles from Highway 207 and in good condition for all vehicles. Bugs can be intense in the burn areas through July. This is a long, demanding day or a comfortable overnight with established campsites along the ridge.