Swauk Forest Discovery Trail
Central CascadesBest Jun–Oct
Interpretive forest loop near Blewett Pass with Cascade panoramas and fall larch color.
About This 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.
Seasonal Highlights
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
“This trail is always fun to walk if you want to take a break from driving over Blewett Pass.”
Last report: Jun 29, 2026
Scorecard
Quiet on weekdays year-round. Moderate use on summer weekends and during larch season in late October.
Permits / Passes
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended; water reflection adds glare near the lake
Persistent Hazards
- Hunting season (fall) - wear blaze orange
- Road to trailhead can be icy in early/late season
Getting There
Parking area at the end of NF-9716, about half a mile from Blewett Pass. Road is groomed in winter for sno-park access.
Recent Reports
Went east to get away from the west side June gloom and stretch our legs a bit. This trail is always fun to walk if you want to take a break from driving over Blewett Pass.
Three one-day work WTA work parties have cleared brush, tidied tread, and removed saw debris from April work that cleared multiple multiple logs from trail. See third photo from April 26 trip report (https://www.
I stopped on my way back from Wenatchee to do this fun little hike and see some flowers (they’re nearing the end of their brief appearance). I did the loop clockwise from the trailhead so went up to the viewpoint first.
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