Iron Bear - Teanaway Ridge

In spring and early summer, the flowers are so profuse and beautiful that you would think that a gardener had planted them. And because this area is usually clear of snow long before many others in the region, hikers can attain Iron Bear Pass, the Teanaway Ridge and views of the Stuart Range and Mount Rainier while much of the Cascade Range is still snowed in.

This is an ideal trail to enjoy abundant wildflowers and mountain views in May or June when the weather on the west side of the Cascades is dreary. Simply cross the pass to find it sunny and warm on the east side.

Springtime is such a popular season for hiking this trail that the Forest Service closes it to motorized use from snowfall through mid-June each year. If you're hiking from mid-June to snowfall, visit on a weekday to avoid encounters with motor vehicles.

This trail description is based on a hike starting from the Iron Creek trailhead, found at the end of Forest Road 9714, a three mile long dirt road with a few potholes. You will ford Iron Creek about 200 yards before you get to the trailhead. If your car has low clearance you can park at one of turnouts just before the ford.

The Iron Bear Trail starts in forest, then proceeds through low shrubs, including serviceberry and snowbrush. In spring, there are many wildflowers, such as balsamroot, penstemon, paintbrush, and forget-me-nots along the trail. If you are a wildflower fan, you will recognize a lot more species. In 1.8 miles, you'll gain about 600 feet before you reach a four-way junction at Iron Bear Pass (elevation 4500 feet).

Take the right trail heading north onto Teanaway Ridge Trail 1364. The sunny, exposed south side slope of the ridge is where you find lovely pink petals of bitterroot. In about 1.5 miles you will gain about 1000 feet and reach an unnamed peak at 5489 feet. There are a lot of rocks to sit on and enjoy lunch. On a clear day you will be able to see Mount Rainier to the south and jagged Mount Stuart to the west.

With so many flowers and great mountain views, this is certainly one of the most beautiful hiking trails around.