Pugh Ridge
Central CascadesBest Jul–Sep
A steep ridgeline connector linking the North Fork Entiat to Pyramid Mountain through remote subalpine meadows.
About This Trail
Pugh Ridge climbs steeply off the North Fork Entiat River Trail at the 2.5-mile mark, ascending a ridgeline to nearly 6,800 feet before dropping to meet the Pyramid Mountain Trail at the head of South Pyramid Creek. This makes it the backbone of a premier loop through the upper Entiat, linking the North Fork valley to Pyramid Mountain's summit and returning via Pyramid Creek.
The first 2.5 miles follow the gentle North Fork Entiat River Trail through forest before the Pugh Ridge junction. From there, the trail gains elevation aggressively along the ridge, breaking into subalpine meadows with wildflowers and broad views across the Entiat drainage. The ridge top delivers long sightlines toward Glacier Peak, Mount Maude, and the peaks of the Chelan Mountains. Water becomes scarce once you leave the river valley, so carry plenty.
This is deep Entiat backcountry. The 32-mile drive on Entiat River Road plus 2 more on FR 5606 keeps visitor numbers extremely low. The trail receives minimal maintenance, and trip reports from 2020-2022 describe brushy sections and rough tread. Road closures from past fires have periodically blocked access at mile 31 of Entiat River Road. Check current road status before committing to the long drive.
Seasonal Highlights
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
Trail receives minimal maintenance. Brushy sections reported in multiple years. Road access can be affected by fire closures on Entiat River Road. The road to the trailhead has some rough rocky sections but was passable for a low-clearance sedan as of 2020.
“Baker the previous weekend and encountering 6 feet of snow at elevation, we weren't sure what to expect.”
Last report: Jul 9, 2022
Scorecard
Extremely remote. Trip reports consistently describe complete solitude on the ridge.
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended
Persistent Hazards
- No water on the ridge; carry full supply from the river valley
- Brushy, minimally maintained trail
- Exposed ridgeline with no shelter
- Entiat River Road may be closed by fire activity
Getting There
Small trailhead off FR 5606, about 2 miles past Silver Falls campground on Entiat River Road. No facilities.
From Entiat, take Entiat River Road 32 miles, then right on FR 5606 for about 2 miles to North Fork Entiat Trailhead. Long gravel drive. Check for fire closures.
Recent Reports
The road up to the trailhead is in pretty good condition. For the most part it is smooth with a few significant potholes.
Started from North Fork Entiat Trailhead, up North Fork Entiat River Trail, right onto Pugh Ridge Trail, over Pugh Ridge to head of South Pyramid Creek where the Pugh Ridge Trail meets the Pyramid Mountain Trail, right onto Pyramid Mountain Trail and followed that all the way to the top of Pyramid Mountain, returned back to South Pyramid Creek and took the Pyramid Creek Trail back to North Fork Entiat Trail and returned to TH. Trail Conditions: First ~3 miles of North Fork Entiat River Trail in
Overnight in the Entiat with the goal of scrambling a few of the area's peaks. The road to the trailhead is good overall, a few rough rocky sections to take care on but passable in our low clearance sedan.
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