Ice Creek - Ice Lakes
Central CascadesBest Jul–Oct
A long walk up the Entiat River valley to a pumice-and-larch alpine basin tucked beneath Mount Maude.
About This Trail
Ice Lakes sit in a glacially carved basin at the head of Ice Creek, surrounded by the rugged peaks of the Entiat Mountains. Getting there requires commitment: roughly 14 miles one way from the Cottonwood Campground trailhead, following the Entiat River Trail before turning up Ice Creek into increasingly wild country. The transition from ponderosa pine forest along the river to the pumice-strewn alpine basin is dramatic and gradual.
The lakes themselves occupy a stark, beautiful landscape. Lower and Upper Ice Lakes reflect the surrounding ridges and, in fall, golden larch groves that light up the basin. Mount Maude (9,060 feet) towers above, drawing climbers who use Ice Lakes as a base camp. The basin offers excellent camping on durable pumice surfaces, though water and weather can both shift quickly at this elevation.
Plan this as a minimum three-day trip. Many parties combine Ice Lakes with the Carne Mountain High Route or loop through Leroy Basin and Phelps Creek for a proper multi-day traverse. The Entiat River Road is long (38 miles from the highway) and the Chiwawa River Road alternative also has rough sections. A Northwest Forest Pass is required. Note: the 2025 Pomas Wildfire burned in the lower Entiat valley near the Ice Creek junction; check current conditions before heading out.
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
Scorecard
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended
Persistent Hazards
- 2025 Pomas Wildfire burned near Ice Creek junction; check current conditions
- Long approach with limited bailout options
- Snow lingers in upper basin into July
- Creek crossings can run high in early season
- Remote location; nearest services many hours away
Getting There
Cottonwood Campground has parking and facilities. Northwest Forest Pass required. The 38-mile drive from Entiat is long but mostly paved.
Drive north from Wenatchee on ALT Highway 97 for 20 miles to Entiat. Turn west on Entiat River Road and follow it 38 miles to Cottonwood Campground (elevation 3,140 feet). The road is mostly paved and passable by standard vehicles. Hike the Entiat River Trail for approximately 8 miles, then turn onto Ice Creek Trail for the remaining 6 miles to the lakes. An alternate approach via Phelps Creek Trailhead and the Leroy High Route provides loop options.
Most parties hike in on day one to a camp along the Entiat River or lower Ice Creek, then push to the lakes on day two. Budget at least three days for an out-and-back, four or five for a loop through Leroy Basin or Carne Mountain High Route.
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