Estes Butte
Central CascadesBest Jun–Oct
A quiet climb through dry Cascade forest to a former fire lookout overlooking the Chiwawa Valley.
About This Trail
Estes Butte is a dry, south-facing climb through mixed forest to a decommissioned fire lookout site overlooking the Chiwawa Valley. The 8.4-mile round trip gains 2,900 feet, starting from Rock Creek Horse Camp and following an abandoned mining road for the first half mile before transitioning to proper trail. Three miles of steady switchbacks through Douglas-fir, grand fir, Western hemlock, and several pine species offer occasional glimpses down steep rock faces to the valley floor.
The forest here is notably arid for the Cascades, and the southwestern exposure means summer heat is a real factor. Carry more water than you think you need. Above the forest, the trail opens into groves of poplar and pine before the final push to the lookout site at mile 4.1. The views span the Chiwawa Ridge and the Entiat Range, with Glacier Peak visible on clear days.
The soft duff trail surface makes the descent easy on the knees. The Chiwawa River Road provides access, and any vehicle can reach the trailhead. Note that fire closures have affected this area: the 2025 Pomas Fire closed the Chiwawa River Road and these trails for portions of the summer season. A Northwest Forest Pass is required.
Seasonal Highlights
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
Trail is in fair shape but lightly maintained. The 2025 Pomas Fire closed the Chiwawa River Road for portions of the summer. Check current road status before planning a trip.
“We hiked the first 3/4 mile or so of this, climbing over/under/through blowdowns, until we got to one that was too hard for us to manage.”
Last report: Jun 27, 2026
Scorecard
Very few visitors. Even hikers in the Chiwawa Valley tend to gravitate toward Spider Meadows or Carne Mountain instead.
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended
Persistent Hazards
- Very dry trail with minimal water sources
- Hot south-facing exposure in summer
- Chiwawa River Road subject to fire closures
Getting There
Park at Rock Creek Horse Camp. No special facilities at the trailhead.
From Highway 2 at Coles Corner, take Highway 207 for 4.3 miles, bear right on Chiwawa Loop Road for 1.3 miles, then left on Chiwawa River Road (FR-6200) for 14.8 miles to Rock Creek Horse Camp.
Start early in summer to avoid the worst of the afternoon heat on the south-facing slopes. Bring extra water.
Recent Reports
The road is in great shape. We hiked the first 3/4 mile or so of this, climbing over/under/through blowdowns, until we got to one that was too hard for us to manage.
These trails and the chiwawa river road are now closed due to the Pomas Fire. https://www.
Pomas Fire related activity on the Chiwawa River Road past where pavement ends.
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