White Pine Creek
Central CascadesBest Jun–Oct
A low-elevation wilderness access trail east of Stevens Pass, mainly used as a launching point for deeper Chiwaukum backcountry objectives.
About This Trail
White Pine Creek is a low-elevation valley trail in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness east of Stevens Pass, following a drainage above the creek for 5 miles roundtrip with only 400 feet of elevation gain. The route connects to the Wildhorse Creek Trail and serves primarily as a through-hiking access corridor to destinations like Josephine Lake, Lake Grace, Frosty Pass, and the Chiwaukum peaks. The creek is audible but rarely visible through the dense forest, and several side creeks cross the trail.
The trail passes through old-growth forest with a wilderness character, but trip reports are mixed on its standalone appeal. The access road (FR 6950) is rough, narrow, and brush-lined, presenting the biggest obstacle to reaching the trailhead. A compact car may not make it through the last mile. Once on trail, overgrown sections and bugs in early summer make casual day hiking less enjoyable. The real value of White Pine Creek is as a starting point for deeper backcountry objectives. A self-issued wilderness permit (no fee) is required, available at the trailhead.
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
“The road to the trailhead was rough, but probably fine for any driver comfortable navigating gravely, brushy forest roads with the occasional pothole.”
Last report: Apr 4, 2026
Scorecard
Almost no day hikers. Through-hikers and backpackers use this as an access route.
Permits / Passes
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended; water reflection adds glare near the lake
Persistent Hazards
- Rough, narrow access road may not be passable for low-clearance vehicles
- Overgrown sections and heavy bugs in early summer
- Multiple creek crossings
Getting There
High-clearance vehicle recommended
Small trailhead at end of White Pine Road (FR 6950). The last mile of road is rough and narrow with brush scraping vehicle sides. No facilities.
Recent Reports
Went up to North and Middle Chiwaukum with a couple of friends this past saturday through the northern approach. Started later than expected at 7:30 AM and Parked the car at Cascade Meadows Church Camp.
A friend and I set out for an overnight at Lake Grace from the White Pine trailhead on a hot summer Saturday. The road to the trailhead was rough, but probably fine for any driver comfortable navigating gravely, brushy forest roads with the occasional pothole.
The good news is that the road is in decent shape, as long as you aren't too precious about your paintjob. The bad news is that it's too buggy and overgrown for a casual dayhike with no major payoff.
Similar Hikes
