West Fork Methow River
North CascadesBest Jun–Oct
A long valley trail up the Methow River's west fork, connecting to the PCT at Glacier Pass through burn zones, wildflower fields, and river crossings.
About This Trail
The West Fork Methow River trail runs nearly 16 miles round trip through a valley shaped by both fire and water. The 2003 Needle Creek Fire opened up sections of forest, and the regrowth now hosts wildflower displays in spring and early summer. The trail alternates between intact forest, burn zones with new growth, rocky sections, and stretches right along the river bank.
This route connects to the Pacific Crest Trail at Glacier Pass, making it a common access point for multi-day trips through the Pasayten Wilderness. Day hikers can turn around at any point, but the first two miles to Trout Creek make a reasonable shorter outing. The Trout Creek bridge collapsed in 2017 and remains out. Late summer allows rock-hopping across; spring runoff makes the crossing dangerous.
The trailhead sits at the end of Road 5400 near Riverbend Campground, west of Mazama off Highway 20. A vault toilet, picnic table, and stock loading ramp sit at the trailhead. No parking pass required. Hart's Pass Road closure currently adds 2.6 miles of walking to reach the trailhead, so check road status before committing to this one.
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
Scorecard
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended
Persistent Hazards
- Trout Creek bridge out since 2017 (dangerous in spring runoff)
- Hart's Pass Road closure adds distance
- river crossings
- brushy/overgrown sections deeper in
Getting There
No parking pass required. Trailhead at end of Road 5400 near Riverbend Campground. From Winthrop, 13.2 miles west on SR 20, then Lost River Road toward Mazama. Vault toilet and picnic table on site.
Trail follows the valley floor with gentle grade. Alternates between forest, burn zones, and riverside sections. Connects to PCT at Glacier Pass for through-hikers. Scree and rocky sections require some footing attention. Check Trout Creek crossing conditions before planning beyond mile 2.
For a full out-and-back, start early to allow time for the 16-mile round trip. The first 2 miles to Trout Creek work as a shorter option if the bridge situation is passable.
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