Swauk Forest Discovery Trail

The Swauk Forest Discovery Trail loops through mixed woodland and meadow east of Blewett Pass, with 25 interpretive stations covering forest ecology, fire recovery, and the geology of the Swauk Formation. Five log benches break up the walk. The trail climbs gently through mature Douglas fir and ponderosa pine before entering a burn recovery zone where young trees and fireweed fill the gaps.

On clear days, the upper meadow sections open to a panorama of Mount Rainier, Mount Stuart, and the Enchantments. Wildflowers pack the meadows from late June through July, and Western Larch turn gold in late October, drawing small crowds to an otherwise quiet corner of the Wenatchee Mountains.

Access is via NF-9716 from Blewett Pass, a half-mile gravel road to the parking area. The same trailhead serves as a winter base for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing when the road is groomed. Summer visitors share the area with the Diamond Head and Haney Meadow snowshoe routes, all departing from the same parking lot.