Holden Village to High Bridge
Central CascadesBest Jul–Sep
A classic multi-day traverse from Holden Village to Stehekin through alpine passes, Glacier Peak views, and deep creek valleys.
About This Trail
This is one of the great multi-day traverses in the North Cascades, connecting Holden Village to the Stehekin Valley via Cloudy Pass and the upper Agnes Creek drainage. The route covers roughly 32 miles point-to-point with established camps spaced along the way, making it manageable over 3 to 4 days at a comfortable pace.
The first stretch follows Railroad Creek upstream past Hart Lake, where a pebbled beach makes a fine rest stop, then continues to Lower Lyman Lake and its three designated campsites. From there the trail climbs to Cloudy Pass, the scenic high point of the trip. The views from the pass are spectacular: Glacier Peak dominates the western skyline, Lyman Glacier sprawls below, and alpine meadows stretch in every direction. Suiattle Pass follows shortly, then the long descent through Agnes Creek to High Bridge.
Plan your logistics carefully. Holden Village access requires the Lady of the Lake ferry to Lucerne plus a bus or walk on FR 8301. At the far end, a shuttle runs from High Bridge into Stehekin, but check the schedule. The alternative is a 14-mile road walk. A free backcountry camping permit is required and must be picked up in person at the ranger station. Bugs can be fierce in July.
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
Scorecard
Safety & Considerations
Persistent Hazards
- steep muddy descent from Cloudy Pass
- creek crossings may be high in early season
- bears in Agnes Creek drainage
Getting There
No trailhead parking. Access Holden Village via the Lady of the Lake ferry from Chelan or Field's Point to Lucerne, then the 11-mile bus ($10-15/person, reservation required via Holden Village). Trail starts on the west side of the village.
The route heads northwest from Holden Village along the Holden Road, then climbs gradually past Hart Lake and Rebel Camp to Lower Lyman Lake. The push to Cloudy Pass is the main climb. From there, the trail descends through Suiattle Pass and follows Agnes Creek downstream to High Bridge, where a shuttle runs to Stehekin.
Most parties take 3 to 4 days. Starting from Holden means less total elevation gain than the reverse direction. Coordinate ferry and bus schedules on both ends before committing to dates. The High Bridge shuttle schedule determines your pickup window.
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