What: A steep hike with great views on the east side of the Cascades.
Where: Take U.S. 2 over Stevens Pass to the west side of Leavenworth, then turn south on Icicle Creek Road. Drive 9.4 miles to the trailhead, which will be on the right side of the road.
Length: 10.6 miles round trip to the junction with Icicle Ridge Trail, with options to go farther.
Level: Strenuous.
Beginning elevation: 2,250 feet.
Highest elevation: 6,800 feet.
Notes: In honor of the holiday, we’re revisiting this patriotic-sounding trail that rises in seemingly never-ending switchbacks to terrific views from Icicle Ridge. Your thighs may be screaming about taxation without representation by the time you hit the ridge, but the panorama across the valley to Mount Stuart, Mount Cashmere and the Enchantment Peaks should ease some of the pain. From the junction with Icicle Ridge Trail, it’s about a quarter-mile to an old lookout site, a good place for lunch. And if you’re up to it, you can follow the ridge trail in either direction for a bit. The good news from the Forest Service is that these trails are snow-free now, though there still may be some downed trees. The bad news is, watch out for rattlesnakes.
Permits: A Forest Service pass is required for parking at the trailhead.
Information: Wenatchee Ranger District, Leavenworth office: 509-548-6977.
Herald staff and Forest Service reports
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