Monkey Bear Falls
Central CascadesBest Jun–Oct
A gentle forest walk to a waterfall, reached only by ferry and bus through Lake Chelan's backcountry.
About This Trail
Monkey Bear Falls is a 5-mile round trip walk through North Cascades forest from Holden Village to a viewing platform above the falls. The trail is flat, gaining only about 200 feet, and passes through an area burned in the 2015 Wolverine Fire that volunteer crews restored in 2017. The trailhead begins near the ADA trail to Ten-Mile Creek Falls and currently lacks signage, so hikers should watch for the junction about two miles in and turn left toward the viewing platform.
Getting here is the real commitment. Holden Village sits at the end of a chain of transportation: the Lady of the Lake ferry from Chelan (or Fields Point) to Lucerne, then a 10-mile bus ride or walk up to the village. There is no road access. The village itself is a former mining town turned retreat center, and the surrounding trail network includes routes to Lyman Lakes, Copper Basin, and North Star Mountain.
Note that Holden Village is closed through May 2026 due to mudslides and washouts on Forest Road 8301. Check current access status before planning a trip.
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
Most recent reports (2019) describe the trail in good condition with a few downed trees. WTA volunteer crews cleared logs and brush in 2018. The area was restored after the 2015 Wolverine Fire. Current conditions unknown due to village closure.
Scorecard
Access via ferry and bus means very few visitors. Most hikers are Holden Village guests.
Safety & Considerations
Persistent Hazards
- No signage at trailhead or key junctions
- Trail above the viewing platform becomes indistinct and is not recommended
- Area was burned in 2015 Wolverine Fire
Getting There
Take the Lady of the Lake ferry from Chelan, Stehekin, or Fields Point to Lucerne. From Lucerne, ride the bus or walk the gravel road 10 miles uphill to Holden Village. Trail starts near the ADA trail to Ten-Mile Creek Falls.
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