Glacier Basin Trail #719

Glacier Basin Trail #719

Highlights: Mountain views, Old Growth, Creek

Distance: 2.1 miles one-way

Beginning Elevation : 3200 feet

Ending Elevation: 4500 feet

Difficulty level: Most Difficult

Map(s): Green Trails #143 Monte Cristo

Visitor Use: Heavy

SUMMARY:

The trail for the first 0.5 mile follows an old railroad grade, originally established in the 1890's for mining. Then the trail climbs very steeply past Glacier Falls and climbs around Mystery Hill, which is somewhat steep in places, ending at the entrance to Glacier Basin itself.

The area is rich in mining activity and this heavily visited basin offers exploration, excellent scenery and climbing for those experienced in mountain climbing and snow travel.

This trail is in the Henry M. Jackson Wilderness and campers should bring stoves, as campfires are prohibited.

Overnighters are asked to avoid camping in the fragile meadow in the bottom of the basin. There are established campsites on Ray's Knoll and Mystery Hill.

TRAILHEAD ACCESS:From the Verlot Public Service Center (11 miles east of Granite Falls), travel east on the Mountain Loop Highway 19.5 miles. Or from the Darrington, travel south on the Mountain Loop Highway 23.4 miles to Barlow Pass.

Park at Barlow Pass and proceed on foot for 4.0 miles on the Monte Cristo Road to the townsite of Monte Cristo. The trail is located at the end of the townsite.

Northwest Forest Pass required to park: Yes

TRAILGUIDE

Best Seasons: Summer/Fall

AREA

Verlot, Mountain Loop Highway, Granite Falls

RANGER STATION (NEAREST)

1405 Emmens St. Darrington, WA 98241

Open Monday - Friday 8 am - 4:30 pm(360) 436-1155

Verlot PublicService Center

Open Thursday - Monday8 am - 4:30 pm (360) 691-7791

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Notice: Hiking in the backcountry can be dangerous. Information on this website comes from a variety of sources. You have to be responsible for using good common sense and researching trails carefully. Things change constantly in the outdoors.

Use caution while hiking so you can enjoy it safely. Don't get in over your head. A call to the ranger station and avalanche hotline(winter) are highly recommended. Bring the ten essentials and make sure someone knows where you are going and expect to be back.