Icicle Ridge via Fourth of July Creek
Central CascadesBest Jun–Sep
A long, grinding ascent through wildflower meadows to a former fire lookout site with 360-degree views above Leavenworth.
About This Trail
Icicle Ridge via Fourth of July Creek is a serious day hike that climbs relentlessly from the Icicle Creek valley floor to the crest of Icicle Ridge, finishing at the site of an old fire lookout above 7,000 feet. The trail does not let up. After two creek crossings in the first half mile, the grade steepens and stays steep for the remaining 5.5 miles to the top.
What makes this trail worth the grind is the wildflowers. In late May and June, the lower slopes light up with balsamroot and lupine. Higher up, the meadows shift to penstemon, glacier lily, spring beauty, and paintbrush. An old burn area around the 3.5-mile mark opens up the views and supports mountain laurel and Jacob's Ladder. The final thousand feet of climbing deliver the full panorama: Stuart Range, Enchantments, Glacier Peak, and the full Icicle Creek drainage laid out below.
Water is limited. There is one reliable source about 2.5 miles in, and snow can be melted near the top in early season. The trail sees far less traffic than the Enchantments or other marquee Leavenworth-area hikes, so you may have the ridge to yourself on a weekday. No pass is required, and there is no privy at the trailhead.
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
“Gorgeous trail with very pretty wildflowers.”
Last report: May 31, 2026
Scorecard
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazards
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended
- Trees Down
Persistent Hazards
- two creek crossings in the first half mile can be tricky in high water
- limited water sources on the route
- exposed ridgeline with no shelter from weather
- snow on upper trail into early summer
Getting There
No pass required. Small roadside pullout on Icicle Road, 9.5 miles from Highway 2. No toilets. A trail registration box sits at the west end of the pullout.
From Highway 2 near Leavenworth, turn onto Icicle Road and drive 9.5 miles to the Fourth of July trailhead pullout on the right. The signed trailhead is at the west end. In spring, snow on the road can block access to the last stretch.
Start early. This is a full-day hike, 7 to 10 hours round trip for most people. In summer, an early start helps beat the heat on the exposed upper sections. Bring at least 3 liters of water since sources are scarce.
Recent Reports
Gorgeous trail with very pretty wildflowers. Saw at least 1 tick so be cautious and do a tick check when you get back to your car.
The May 1 report does a good job of describing the blowdown situation - it’s all still accurate as of today. There are still some wildflowers blooming in the first half of the trail (lots of lovely lupine right now) and still some snow once you hit the ridge.
Aggressive bear warning posted on the trailhead board on May 12. Says to make noise, don’t bring food onto the trail.
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