Blackjack Ridge
Central CascadesBest Jul–Oct
A steep, quiet climb to open ridgeline walking above Icicle Creek, with genuine solitude and big views.
About This Trail
Blackjack Ridge is one of the Icicle Creek drainage's best-kept secrets. The trail wastes no time gaining elevation, putting up over 3,000 feet in less than three miles through steep, relentless switchbacks. The forest eventually opens to meadow slopes and ridgetop walking with long views across the Icicle Ridge country.
Most hikers who come out here are heading for Bootjack Mountain or continuing along the ridge toward Highchair Mountain. The traverse between peaks is a genuine highlight, with open ridgeline travel and wildflower meadows in midsummer. The trail eventually connects to the Snowall-Cradle Lake trail, making extended backpacking loops possible, though trip reports consistently warn that the stretch between Bootjack and that junction is rough and poorly maintained.
This is not a trail for casual visitors. Route-finding skills come in handy, especially beyond the Bootjack summit. Bugs are persistent through July, and mud lingers on the lower sections into early summer. But for hikers looking for real solitude and earned views in a part of the Cascades that most people drive right past, Blackjack Ridge delivers.
Mountain Weather
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
“Our original goal was Josephine Lake from the Icicle Creek TH.”
Last report: May 23, 2026
Scorecard
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazards
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended
- Washed Out
Persistent Hazards
- Rough, unmaintained trail beyond Bootjack Mountain
- Persistent bugs through July
- Steep grade with minimal switchback relief in places
Getting There
Trailhead is at Blackpine Horse Camp, about 18 miles up Icicle Road from Leavenworth. Road turns to gravel around mile 13. No parking fee. Pit toilet at trailhead.
From Leavenworth, head southwest on Highway 2 for 0.8 miles, turn left onto Icicle Road. Continue 18 miles (gravel after mile 13, Forest Road 7600). Cross Icicle Creek around mile 15. Trailhead is just before Black Pine Horse Camp. Self-issue wilderness permit at the trailhead, no fee.
Start early. The steep lower section is shaded, but you want to be on the ridge before afternoon heat and thunderstorm buildup in summer.
Recent Reports
Our original goal was Josephine Lake from the Icicle Creek TH. The road was closed to cars about 1.
Road is closed to the trailhead, although really you can go past the sign and drive all the way to the trailhead before the washout starts. Do so at your own risk, as I'm not sure if the rangers give out tickets or if the road is actually unstable prior to the washout.
We did this as a 3-day, 2-night back from the Jack Trout Trailhead. This was a beautiful trip, but I’d recommend against doing this as a loop it for most people, because of the stretch between Bootjack and the Snowall-Cradle Lake trail.
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