Kettle Crest South
Eastern WashingtonBest Jun–Oct
High ridgeline through fire-scarred peaks in the Kettle Range, with a reservable backcountry cabin and golden larch in fall.
About This Trail
The southern section of the Kettle Crest traverses high ridgeline through the Colville National Forest, connecting Sherman Pass with the White Mountain trailhead. The route passes over or near several named summits including Sherman Peak, Snow Peak, Bald Mountain, Barnaby Butte, and White Mountain. Much of the ridge burned in a 1988 fire, so the canopy is open with standing snags and wide views across the Kettle River Range.
Snow Peak Cabin is the highlight for overnight trips. It is a reservable Forest Service rental that books up fast, sometimes six months out. Trip reports describe full-moon winter overnights and summer meteor-shower camps from the cabin. Even as a day hike, the loop around Sherman Peak (about 5.3 miles from the Sherman Pass trailhead) makes a satisfying out-and-back with steady views.
Wildlife is abundant. The area is managed as trophy mule deer habitat, meaning a high ratio of mature bucks. Expect deer, coyotes, grouse, black bear, and songbirds. Lynx sign has been documented. October is prime season for golden western larch, and the drive over Sherman Pass alone is worth the trip during fall color. The trailhead approach via South Fork Sherman Creek Road is rough but passable for most vehicles.
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
Scorecard
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended
Persistent Hazards
- lightning exposure on open ridge
- rough access road to White Mountain trailhead
- blowdowns from standing dead timber
Getting There
Free. No parking pass required. The White Mountain trailhead has a small lot at the end of a rough forest road. Sherman Pass trailhead on Highway 20 is easier to reach.
From the White Mountain trailhead, the route climbs steadily along the ridge. From Sherman Pass, a loop around Sherman Peak is the most common day trip. The full south section is a point-to-point requiring a car shuttle or out-and-back. Trail is well-defined but some trip reports note rough conditions and blowdowns.
Start early for the full traverse. The Sherman Peak loop from Sherman Pass works as a half-day. In summer, afternoon thunderstorms are common on the ridge, so plan to be off high ground by early afternoon.
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