Naneum Meadows
Central CascadesBest Jun–Oct
Exposed connector trail across a fire-opened plateau linking the Naneum basin loop network.
About This Trail
Naneum Meadows Trail (#1389) connects Table Mountain road to the broader Naneum basin trail network, descending across a fire-scarred plateau with minimal elevation change. The 2012 Table Mountain Fire stripped the canopy, leaving the route wide open to wind and sun. The trail drops to Owl Creek, plateaus briefly, then reaches the Naneum-Wilson Trail junction before descending more steeply to Naneum Creek and a T-intersection offering routes toward Howard Creek or downstream along Naneum Creek.
The open terrain and sparse trees mean long views across the Wenatchee Mountains, but wind is a constant factor on the exposed plateau. Wildflowers fill the meadows in early summer, and larch stands that survived the fire turn gold in October. The trail serves as an important connector piece for larger loops incorporating Table Mountain, Naneum Creek, Elk Trap Springs, and Tronsen Ridge trails.
Navigation aids are helpful beyond the main junction, as not all trail intersections are signed. The road approach from Blewett Pass via FR 9716 and FR 9712 takes roughly 45 minutes and is rough enough that some hikers access the area from the Tronsen Ridge ORV trailhead instead.
Seasonal Highlights
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
“With Bob and Barb’s 1500th trip report from last June as an aid, I attempted to do a loop or figure eight using Grass Camp and Naneum Creek trails.”
Last report: Jun 14, 2026
Scorecard
Quiet even during larch season. Most use it as a connector, not a destination.
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended
Persistent Hazards
- Fully exposed to wind and lightning - no shelter
- Unsigned trail junctions beyond main junction
- Long rough road approach
- Hunting season (fall) - wear blaze orange
Getting There
High-clearance vehicle recommended
No facilities at trailhead. Access from Table Mountain road via FR 9716/9712/35. Alternative access from Tronsen Ridge ORV trailhead avoids the long forest road drive.
The 45-minute drive from Blewett Pass on forest roads deters many. Some hikers access from Tronsen Ridge ORV trailhead to avoid the rough road.
Recent Reports
With Bob and Barb’s 1500th trip report from last June as an aid, I attempted to do a loop or figure eight using Grass Camp and Naneum Creek trails. I started first from the Ken Wilcox Horse Camp, and mine was the only vehicle there.
This was trip report 1500 for us. To reach the Naneum Meadows TH where we began our meander we drove north on 97 to Blewett Pass and turned right onto FR 9716.
I ventured to the Wenatchee Mountains for a big ol' loop utilizing a bunch of trails. I started at the North Tronsen Ridge Trailhead atop 5 mile road.
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