Trip report by: Michael Fagin
"I would definitely recommend this trip to a friend."
If you’re a wildflower or photography enthusiast, the flora at Iron Creek and the Teanaway Ridge are usually in full bloom during the first few weeks of May.
This is a family-friendly hike for the first 1.5 miles, where there is a junction and, just beyond the junction, a nice view of Mt. Rainier. Early in the season, the trail is snow-free to the viewpoint, and this portion of the trip gains a mere 800 feet.
Beyond this point, the trail gets more challenging and more snow-covered, gaining 1100 feet and reaching the 5500-foot knoll in two more miles. When completely snow-covered, the trail beyond the knoll is hard to find, and the trail may still receive fresh snow at that elevation well into May.
Add to these distances the varying number of miles of road you will hike, due to lingering, deep snow patches.
Getting there: From I-90 near Cle Elum, follow U.S. 97 north. Go 2.3 miles past Mineral Spring Resort. Then turn left on Forest Road 9714. In 3.6 miles, just before the end of the road, turn right toward the trailhead and park safely at the snow line.
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.