White Chuck Bench Trail #731

White Chuck Bench Trail #731

Highlights: Mountain views, old growth forest

Distance: 6.5 miles one-way

Beginning Elevation : 1600 feet

Ending Elevation: 1000 feet

Difficulty level: More Difficult

Map(s): Green Trails Sloan Peak #111

Visitor Use: Low

SUMMARY:

With modest ups and downs, this trail is a pleasant hike along the west side of the Sauk River. The cedar stumps, surrounded by mossy vegetation and an assortment of ferns, make this trail a hiker's delight.

The east end of the trail starts in dense second-growth timber and crosses several small streams before entering a stand of old-growth timber with many remnant cedar "giants". This trail follows the river bench through thick timber and hand-logged cedar stumps (look for the spring board "eyes" on the stumps).

The trail partly follows an old railroad grade for several miles through stands of alder and second growth. After a rock crossing, the trail again climbs and follows the ridge high above the river, providing a view of White Chuck Mountain.

After crossing Black Oak Creek at 5.5 miles, the trail once again climbs above the river and remains nearly level, weaving amongst the trees.

As the trail skirts the ridge, views of the river and the surrounding mountains can be found. The west end of the trail rewards the hiker with a spectacular view of the river below and the towering peaks of the White Chuck and Pugh Mountains.

TRAILHEAD ACCESS: From the Darrington, take the Mountain Loop Highway 10.0 miles to the White Chuck River Road on the left (east). Follow this road for 5.5 miles. The trailhead is on the left just after crossing the White Chuck River.

Northwest Forest Pass required to park: Yes

TRAILGUIDE

Best Seasons: Summer/Fall

AREA

Darrington, Mountain Loop Highway

RANGER STATION (NEAREST)

1405 Emmens St. Darrington, WA 98241 Open Monday - Friday 8 am - 4:30 pm (360) 436-1155

Verlot Public Service Center Open Thursday - Monday 8 am - 4:30 pm (360) 691-7791

TRAIL REVIEW submit your review

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.