Ewok Trail

The Ewok Trail takes hikers on a steady climb — although the trail never gets too steep, it also spends little time staying entirely flat. And if you're a switchback fan, this might just be the trail for you! 

Start on the edge of Roslyn, heading north out of a residential part of town. The houses stay in view for a while, but disappear as you begin to switchback your way up to the ridge.

The trail rarely opens up enough to get full vistas of the surrounding mountains, but that just makes the peekaboo views of snowcapped peaks all the more exciting. It also allows your eyes to be drawn to the many wildflowers — yellow avalanche lilies, western springbeauties, trillium and more — and towering giants — large Ponderosa pines and Douglas firs — all around you. 

About 2.5 miles in, the trail brushes up against large concrete structures, remnants of a mine from long ago. It's not a bad place for a break before making your last mile up to the ridge.

At the top of the ridge, you'll find a small field with wide views that include the Enchantments and Alpine Lakes Wilderness. And if you look in the nearby area, you might even be able to see some huge basalt slabs, a signature of the Teanaway area. It's the perfect place for lunch before heading back down to the trailhead or exploring more of the massive web of trails.

WTA Pro Tip: It's a good idea to bring a map with you, as the area's large trail network could easily lead you along a different trail. 

Make it a loop

This trail pairs well with the Crooked Tree Trail to make a loop. The two trails converge at the top of the ridge, and make for a 5.5-mile loop from Roslyn to the ridge. Start with Ewok for a milder climb and steeper descent, or start with Crooked Tree for the opposite.