Entiat River

The Entiat River Trail is the main artery into the eastern flank of Glacier Peak Wilderness, running 15 miles up a broad valley scarred and reshaped by decades of wildfire. The Tinpan Fire (2006), Duncan Ridge Fire (2014), Wolverine Fire (2015), and Pomas Fire (2025) have stripped much of the canopy, leaving long exposed stretches that bake in summer and offer unobstructed views of the surrounding peaks. Recovery is visible everywhere: fireweed, young conifers, and brush crowd the trail edges, and wildlife has returned in force.

The first several miles roll gently along the river through burned but recovering forest, passing junctions for Anthem Creek, Cow Creek Meadows, Myrtle Lake, and Larch Lakes before the valley narrows. Beyond the Ice Creek junction at mile 8, the trail pushes deeper into true wilderness, gaining elevation more steadily toward Emerald Park and ultimately the Entiat Glacier beneath Mount Maude, Seven Fingered Jack, and Mount Fernow. Most parties turn around at Cool Creek (mile 13) or use the trail as an approach for those higher destinations.

Water is abundant from the river and side creeks. Established campsites dot the route. The long dirt approach on Forest Road 51 adds significant drive time, and the road can be rough past Cottonwood Campground. This is not a quick day hike for most people. Plan for an early start or bring overnight gear.