Naches Trail

This hike is a journey through a network of historic roads. For starters, the trail follows the path of a travel corridor that was used by local tribes and later became a  treacherous wagon route for settlers in the 1800s. Then, along the way, this historic trail brings visitors up to the present day by crossing five Forest Roads before arriving at the beautiful Government Meadow where deer and elk are likely to be seen.

This trail officially ends just before Government Meadow, but hikers can easily continue their journey to this beautiful open area, or they can link up with the Pacific Crest Trail and extend their trip from there. To continue on the route of this old wagon road, keep heading east until the trail turns into the Naches Pass Jeep Trail, which is open to off road vehicles.

After a short detour from the Naches Trail along the Pacific Crest Trail, hikers can visit the Camp Urich cabin as well, which still stands on the edge of Government Meadow with open doors. The cabin has a wood stove and an outhouse where visitors can stay the night on a first-come-first-served basis. There are also several alternative ways to reach Government Meadow depending on the type of trip you are looking for.

The Naches Trail is open to mountain bikes, horses, and in some cases motorized vehicles. The section of trail from Forest Road 7065 to 7033 is open to hikers only, and motorized vehicles are restricted seasonally on other segments. It is a good idea to check with the Naches Ranger District for the most current information.