Suiattle River Trail, Upper Suiattle River & Gamma Ridge — Thursday, May. 28, 2020

With a group of friends, hiked Suiattle River Trail, small portion of the PCT, upper Suiattle River Trail, and Gamma Ridge Trail to get to Gamma Hot Springs. Did the trip in three fairly long days, around 40 miles and 5500 feet of elevation. Snow level was at around 4400 ft. Special gear that could be helpful on this trip could be: ice axe, repelling rope, microspikes, GPS - although the trip could be accomplished without these depending on the person. I was lucky enough to have the coordinates for the springs, which I found in another trip report, but you can also find approximate location using Google Maps. The route for the springs approach had us go high, and then descend between gamma creek and the largest eastern tributary with the path of least resistance - although the best approach will be dependent on snow/mud at the time of the approach. The springs were very small and we spent a few hours carving out a small pool in the dirt before leaving, but the heavy rain surely washed our efforts away. A tarp and digging device may be helpful for carving out a more soakable pool - just make sure to practice leave-no-trace and leave nothing behind. I do not suggest anyone attempt to reach these springs unless they are confident in their gear, navigation skills, and ability to cross difficult terrain (possible snowfields, high creeks, steep rock faces). 

Pic 1: Gamma Ridge

Pic 2: Springs and Gamma Creek