Icicle River Road Snowshoe

Icicle River Road closes to vehicle traffic each winter at the Bridge Creek gate, about 8.5 miles from Leavenworth. The unplowed road beyond the gate becomes a flat, wide snowshoe and ski corridor following Icicle Creek upstream into the valley. You can go as far as you like and turn around whenever you want, making this one of the most flexible winter outings near Leavenworth.

The road follows the creek through the valley with views of Grindstone Mountain and surrounding cliffs. Icicles hang from the steep rock faces lining the canyon, and the creek stays open and audible through most of the winter. Snowmobilers and dog sledders also use the road, and their tracks help break trail for snowshoers. The terrain stays flat or gently rolling the entire way, with no route-finding needed.

Park where the plowing ends at the Bridge Creek gate. The parking area can be icy, so approach carefully. No pass is required. The road makes a good introduction to snowshoeing for beginners, and the choose-your-own-distance format works for any fitness level. Bring a camp chair and a thermos, find a riverside boulder, and take your time.