White River
Central CascadesBest Jun–Oct
Follow glacial meltwater through old-growth cedar along one of the Cascades' most striking river valleys.
About This Trail
The White River gets its name from glacial flour pouring off the Dakobed Range through Foam, Lightning, and Thunder Creeks. That milky blue-white water is the star of this trail, and it stays close the whole way. A sturdy bridge spans a narrow gorge right at the start, setting the tone.
The maintained trail runs 4.1 miles to the Boulder Creek junction, gaining only 900 feet over that distance. It is a gentle river valley walk through old-growth western redcedar, with a particularly impressive grove at 0.4 miles and a scenic riverside bend at 2.9 miles. At 3.7 miles, Boulder Creek crossing requires navigating a log where a bridge once stood. The established campsite at Boulder Creek junction makes a natural turnaround or a solid overnight destination.
Beyond the junction, trail maintenance drops off sharply. WTA notes the trail has not been maintained past Boulder Creek for many years and is "difficult or impossible to follow" for most of its length. Experienced hikers with route-finding skills can push deeper toward the PCT, but expect serious blowdown and brush. The maintained section, though, is a genuine pleasure and sees steady volunteer work from WTA crews.
Forecast
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
“Road is passable to the trailhead with high clearance.”
Last report: Jun 21, 2026
Scorecard
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended; water reflection adds glare near the lake
Persistent Hazards
- Boulder Creek log crossing at 3.7 miles (bridge washed out)
- Unmaintained trail beyond Boulder Creek junction with heavy blowdown
Getting There
Large parking area fits about 20 vehicles with additional roadside overflow. Picnic table at trailhead but no privy. Northwest Forest Pass required.
From Coles Corner, take Highway 207 north 10.5 miles. Turn right onto White River Road. Pass Tall Timbers Ranch at 6.2 miles, keeping left at the unsigned fork to bypass the ranch. Trailhead is 10.1 miles from WA-207. Self-issue wilderness permit at the trailhead, no fee.
No particular rush on timing. The valley stays shaded through midday. If planning to camp at Boulder Creek junction, an early afternoon start leaves plenty of time.
Recent Reports
I participated in last summer’s work party on the White River Trail, and I’m slated to come back in late July this year, so I decided to head up there on Sunday to see how things were looking. None of my usual hiking partners were interested in joining (can’t imagine why!
We only went in 1. 3 miles because we got tired of climbing over and under trees.
Road is passable to the trailhead with high clearance. There is one sketchy spot a mile before the trailhead that some people won't want to try, even with an SUV.
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