Trip report by: Denis Du Bois
"I would definitely recommend this trip to a friend."
If you’re looking for a weekend destination that offers an abundance of trail choices, look at the Leavenworth area. One excellent, early-season day hike is Icicle Ridge, which offers increasingly impressive panoramic views as you approach the ridgetop. There are two steep trails—one short, one longer—and each trail has its redeeming qualities.
The recommended route is trail 1570. It starts near the golf course, 1.3 miles from US 2 on Icicle Creek Road, elevation 1200'. Well-maintained switchbacks lead up onto the ridge, then the trail levels off significantly at 4.5 miles, 5200'. It’s a 4000' gain to this point, so get an early start and take your time. This is a good place to enjoy the views and turn around.
Depending on the snow level, the views get much better at each of several high points on the ridge. At eight miles, elevation 6900', enjoy 360-degree views of the Cascades. On a clear day, this spot will treat you to close-ups of Mount Daniel in the Glacier Peak Wilderness to the north, and the Stuart Range and Enchantment Peaks in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness to the south.
The Fourth of July Creek trail 1579 is an alternative route to this high point, starting 1000 feet higher at the trailhead and reaching the viewpoint in half the distance. The trailhead is on Icicle Creek Road, 1.3 miles beyond Bridge Creek Campground. The trail climbs aggressively to the Icicle Creek trail junction, gaining 4500' in under 4 miles. Turn right for the viewpoint.
Turn left, and higher viewpoints await you, each with precipitous drop-offs to the north or south. One is reportedly an old fire lookout site (the building is long gone).
Getting there: From US 2 just west of Leavenworth, turn south on Icicle Creek Road and continue to either of these trailheads. Northwest Forest Pass required, available at Leavenworth Ranger Station at the west end of town. In the summer, they’re open 7:45 AM to 4:30 PM all weekend, being one of the service-conscious districts that understands that’s when hikers need them most. Click on the Trip Planner button for their phone number.
Note: This is backcountry wilderness travel. Any trail can become very dangerous in winter conditions. You are responsible for informing yourself of the hazards and taking the necessary precautions. Please read Terms of Use.