Jack Creek, Jack Ridge & Trout Lake via Jack Trout Trailhead — Tuesday, Aug. 14, 2007

Central Cascades > Leavenworth Area

I had originally planned to do the Chatter Creek trail today. Unfortunately, the Green Trails Map is incorrect and I spent a fruitless hour trying to find the elusive TH past the Chatter Creek camping area. On my way out of the Icicle Creek Road, I realized the TH has now been moved to just BEFORE the Chatter Creek Campground. Alas.... I found an alternative trail do to along the Icicle Creek and will have to return to do the Chatter Creek trail. I decided to do the loop trail up to Trout Lake. Aside from encountering some folks on horseback at the TH, I had the trail to myself the entire day. Started down the Jack Creek trail for about 1.5 miles. It was in great condition and cleared of blow downs. Then took a right on the Trout Creek trail and started the swichbacks up and up. The trail is mostly in the forest, a nice respite from the Leavenworth sun. The trail is pretty well maintained, although was a bit overgrown as it traverses the side of Jack Ridge. Reached the lake after 4 miles on trail #1555. There were quite a few blowdowns there, which could make finding a camp site a bit challenging. Shared my lunch spot on the lake edge with a beautiful doe and then started heading up and over Jack Ridge again on trail #1557. This trail is in much need of attention. There were multiple blowdowns and the trail is becoming overgrown. While hiking this section, I kept thinking that without some attention, this section of trail is at risk for being overtaken by the devils glove and slide alder. After what seemed like longer than 3.5 miles (as listed on the map), trail #1558 was again reached and it was an easy 3 miles back to the TH. All in all, it was a beautiful ~13 mile loop trip, easily done in under 6 hours. And now I know where to find that darn Chatter Creek TH!