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Index Creek

Central Cascades > Stevens Pass - East
 47.6793, -120.8699 Map & Directions
Length
12.8 miles, one-way
Elevation Gain
2,550 feet
Highest Point
24,800 feet
Calculated Difficulty About Calculated Difficulty
Hard
Fall on the Index Creek trail. Photo by onehikeaweek. Full-size image
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This infrequently-maintained trail within Alpine Lakes Wilderness branches off the Chiwaukum Creek trail 10 miles in. It's possible to connect to the Icicle Ridge trail from here, provided you're willing to undertake some brushbashing. Continue reading

  • Wildflowers/Meadows
  • Ridges/passes
  • Dogs allowed on leash

Parking Pass/Entry Fee

Northwest Forest Pass
Rating
3.50 out of 5

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Hiking Index Creek

This infrequently-maintained trail within Alpine Lakes Wilderness branches off the Chiwaukum Creek trail 10 miles in. 

From the junction, hikers will negotiate moderate grades with brushy sections in the first mile, then a steep and rough climb to Index Meadow, where you can find camping areas and horse feed.

Ultimately, the trail connects with the Icicle Ridge Trail, making long traverses possible if you are willing to brave a brushy, hard-to-follow trail.

Toilet Information

  • Toilet at trailhead

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Index Creek

Map & Directions

Trailhead
Co-ordinates: 47.6793, -120.8699 Open in Google Maps

Before You Go

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Parking Pass/Entry Fee

Northwest Forest Pass

WTA Pro Tip: Save a copy of our directions before you leave! App-based driving directions aren't always accurate and data connections may be unreliable as you drive to the trailhead.

Getting There

The trail begins 10 miles up the Chiwaukum Creek Trail from the Chiwaukum Creek Trailhead.

From Everett head east on Highway 2 for 85 miles to Coles Corner. Continue east on US 2 for 4.8 miles, turning right on Chiwaukum Creek Road (the turnoff is 0.75 mile before Tumwater Campground between mileposts 89 and 90). From Leavenworth follow US 2 west for 10 miles to the turnoff.

Follow Chiwaukum Creek Road for 0.2 mile to the trailhead (elev. 1850 ft). Privy available.

More Hike Details

Trailhead

Central Cascades > Stevens Pass - East

Index Creek (#1572)

Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, Wenatchee River Ranger District

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The Greg Ball Trail: Bridging Past, Present and Future

May 8, 2023

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Index Creek

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