Howard Creek

Beginning at the trailhead off Forest Road 9712 and ending at Naneum Creek Trail 1381, Howard Creek can give visitors either a long ramble through the big Table Mountain burn area, or it can be utilized to make a loop through the Blewett Pass area, including Mount Lillian.

The trailhead off 9712 is the high point of the Howard Creek trail. From here, the trail descends along the headwaters of Howard Creek, crosses the creek, climbs to a bench. It then passes through several decades-old clearcuts, crosses Forest Road 3530 and continues west to its end at junction with Naneum Creek Trail 1381.

Most people, however, take the Howard Creek trail just 1.4 miles, before arriving at a junction with Trail 1373. Turn right onto 1373, and proceed 1.8 miles to scenic Haney Meadow.

In the meadow, take a right, crossing road 9712 and hopping onto Mount Lillian trail 1601. Continue up this trail into Upper Naneum Meadow, where you'll arrive at a junction with Trail 4W312 and a continuation of 1601. Turn right, and follow 1601, now fully in the former burn area, through stark black trees and expansive vistas of the Blewett Pass area, which feature larches in the fall and wildflowers in the spring.

Your ridgeline traverse on 1601 is 1.5 miles long, but be sure to have gaiters and trekking poles (or something to stabilize with), since the terrain here is ashy and slippery from the fire. You'll end your hike when you meet the Road 9712, where you'll head left, down the road to your trailhead.