Rock Creek
Central CascadesBest Jul–Sep
A long, wild valley hike up the Chiwawa drainage to hidden meadows beneath Old Gib Mountain.
About This Trail
Rock Creek is nearly 19 miles round trip and earns every one of them. The trail follows its namesake creek deep into the mountains off the Chiwawa River Road, climbing gradually through old-growth forest before opening into a large alpine meadow around mile 8. From there, Old Gib Mountain dominates the view, and the wildflowers in late summer are worth the walk. This is big, quiet country.
The first few miles are straightforward enough, but the trail deteriorates steadily as you push deeper. A narrow passage near a former landslide at 1.5 miles requires some care. Beyond that, expect increasing blowdowns, overgrown brush, and sections where the tread vanishes into meadow grass. The final stretch to the big meadow requires genuine bushwhacking. WTA trail crews worked this route in 2022, but it remains rough.
This trail is best suited for overnight backpacking. The meadow camp at mile 8 is the main draw, with reliable water from Rock Creek and sweeping mountain views. Birders will find good habitat throughout. No facilities at the trailhead, and cell service is nonexistent once you leave the Chiwawa River Road. Note that this area was affected by the Pomas Fire in 2025; check current access status before heading out.
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
“This report is for a 5-day, 40-mile east-west solo traverse of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, starting at Salmon La Sac trailhead and ending at Snow Lake trailhead/Alpental.”
Last report: Aug 18, 2025
Scorecard
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended
Persistent Hazards
- narrow passage near former landslide at 1.5 miles
- heavy blowdowns throughout
- overgrown brush with thorny and stinging plants
- creek ford crossings during high water
- no cell service
- affected by 2025 Pomas Fire - check access
Getting There
No parking pass or fee required. Limited parking for several vehicles at the trailhead. No toilet facilities.
From Highway 2 at Coles Corner, take WA-207 south 4.3 miles. Turn right onto Chiwawa Loop Road, continue 1.3 miles, then left onto Chiwawa River Road for 14.5 miles to the trailhead on the right. The long forest road adds significant drive time. Trail follows Rock Creek with increasing route-finding demands past mile 5.
Plan this as an overnight or very long day. For the full meadow experience, camp at the large meadow around mile 8. Start early if attempting as a day hike to allow 10-12 hours round trip.
Recent Reports
This report is for a 5-day, 40-mile east-west solo traverse of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, starting at Salmon La Sac trailhead and ending at Snow Lake trailhead/Alpental. I’ll focus on the status of a couple rarely used trails and my campsite experiences at each stop.
These trails and the chiwawa river road are now closed due to the Pomas Fire. https://www.
FOUND: Honda key fob ~5 miles up the trail. Happy to get it to the owner.
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