Carne Mountain
Central CascadesBest Jul–Oct
The Chiwawa Valley's gold standard for larch viewing, with Glacier Peak and Mount Maude filling the horizon.
About This Trail
Carne Mountain is the Central Cascades' premier larch destination. The 7.3-mile round trip gains 3,600 feet in a direct, switchbacking climb from the Phelps Creek Trail to a 7,085-foot summit ringed with golden western larches in October. The first mile follows the wide Phelps Creek Trail before branching onto the narrower Carne Mountain Trail, which climbs 2,600 feet over 2.9 miles through forest, talus, and a small summit basin thick with larch trees.
From the top, Mount Maude, Clark Mountain, and Glacier Peak dominate the skyline. The summit basin collects larches in a natural amphitheater that turns brilliant gold from mid-to-late October. Outside of larch season, the trail offers wildflower meadows in July and August and expansive views year-round when snow-free.
The Chiwawa River Road provides access, and no parking pass is required. The trail is overgrown in spots but maintained well enough to follow. Freeze-thaw cycles in late season create icy morning conditions on the upper trail and mud on the descent. This shares a trailhead area with Spider Meadows, Phelps Creek, and the routes to Mount Maude and Seven Fingered Jack, making it a natural add-on to a Chiwawa Valley trip.
Seasonal Highlights
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
Trail is in good shape but overgrown in spots. Late season brings freeze-thaw cycles with icy mornings and muddy afternoons on the upper trail. Chiwawa River Road was closed for the 2025 Pomas Fire but has since reopened.
Scorecard
Moderate traffic most of summer. Gets busy during October larch season, especially weekends. Quiet at other times.
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended
Persistent Hazards
- Freeze-thaw creates icy conditions on upper trail in shoulder season
- Trail overgrown in spots
- Chiwawa River Road subject to fire closures
Getting There
Parking at the Phelps Creek trailhead area. No pass required.
Chiwawa River Road from Highway 2 at Coles Corner. Paved initially, then well-maintained gravel. Check road status as Pomas Fire closures affected access in 2025.
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