Is there anything more serene than snow-flocked pine trees? This route ambles gently up the wide Tieton River valley, rolling through broad meadows and through sun-streaked forests. Elk can often be found browsing amongst the trees, and even if the majestic big beasts are absent, you'll likely encounter lesser critters. Pine martens scurry through the snow, as do weasels, snowshoe hares, bobcats, cougars, coyotes, foxes, and an array of birds.

Hike up the road as it slides gradually up the Tieton River valley. On either side of you are towering valley walls that at times show vertical rock faces, while at other times they are lined with lush pine forests. The route crosses Hell Creek at about 1 mile, and moves along the base of the north valley wall. Here, the boundary of the Goat Rocks Wilderness is just a snowball's throw away to the right. As you continue up the road, you can enjoy wonderful views of Old Snowy Mountain, which stands like a sentinel at the head of the valley.

At 2.8 miles, the road crosses Miriam Creek, and edges back toward the middle of the valley for the final run to the road's end at 5 miles, at the edge of the wilderness (the road corridor is a 5-mile long peninsula of unprotected land jutting into the wilderness).

Beyond the road end, summer hiking trails continue up the valley, one eventually leading to the very summit of Old Snowy Mountain. But this trail is steep and difficult to follow come winter. Leave that for warm summer days. Instead, stick to the valley road, and if you need further adventures, bust out into the various meadows and clearings along the way to explore those wildlife refuges.

Author’s Rating: Easiest.
Generally good trails for beginners, with little elevation change and minimal avalanche danger.