Estes Butte

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.