Marten Creek

Follow an old mining route through quiet forest near Darrington. Short of some brushing and drainage work by WTA in 2012, this trail hasn't seen much maintenance in recent years, so it may require some route-finding experience to visit.

This route once extended over Granite Pass all the way to Darrington, serving the Marten Creek Mines. Despite being steep, the first mile is an old (1940s) road. Climb uphill and pass a small tree plantation. These little saplings were planted in 1915 after a major fire in this area--they were taken from various locations and elevations to see which species saw the best growth success.

The goal of the study was to discover the best species of trees to replant after logging. Researchers were looking for disease resistance and fast growth in trees, but made some other interesting discoveries. Namely, that the parent of a given tree has more to do with the growth success of a tree than weather conditions do.

After only a quarter-mile of hiking, enter the Boulder River Wilderness. Continue on, and a mile from the trailhead, the way levels out and emerges into a large brushy basin.

2.5 miles from the trailhead is Marten Creek. Cross this, and continue for just under a mile to the site of an old mine. At this point, the trail disappears into the brush. If you're heading for Granite Pass, you'll need to have a good map, compass, and route finding skills.