Spider Meadows #1511, Phelps Creek #1511
Jul 15, 2007
- Type of Outing
- Day hike
- Read More in our Hiking Guide
- Hike: Spider Meadow and Phelps Basin
- Region: Central Cascades -- Stevens Pass - East
- Agency: Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, Wenatchee River Ranger District, Leavenworth
- Trails: Spider Meadows (#1511)
- Avg Rating: 4.13
Our group headed out Friday for a 3 day weekend backpack to Spider Meadow area, the lightning storms we encountered in the Leavenworth area soon blew over.
Road 6200 is in great condition,the short Road 6211 to Phelps Creek TH is a little rutted in places but ok for any vehicle.
The trail has numerous blow downs but all are easy to go around, under or over. Temps were very warm, but the trail has shady sections plus numerous welcome creeks; we splashed through and dunked our hats and scarves in the cool water at every opportunity.
Leroy creek is running high & fast, particularly with snow melt later in the day. We took off our boots, & given our heavy packs, we crossed with water shoes and hiking poles.
The trail is clear of snow to the Meadow, the patchy snow in the trees is melting fast with dry camp sites. Be sure to use a bear container or hang all food. Don’t forget sunscreen, assorted bugs are currently not too bad if a breeze or repellent sprayed here & there on hats & shorts.
We camped at south end & Saturday explored the meadow, crossing Phelps Creek at the north end. This wide creek is running icy cold, very fast and strong; by late afternoon the flow reaches knees or higher. Some crossed bare feet, some used water shoes, ""suggest everyone use caution here ""
After crossing, some of the trail within the trees is still snow covered and easy to break through. Some of our group with hiking poles & ice axes headed for Spider Gap with it’s stunning views, others to 5500 feet for great views of the surrounding terrain & meadow before turning around to take trail 1511 A to Phelps Basin. This glorious spot is often overlooked and a pristine favorite.
Numerous wildflowers are beginning to show, and in another couple of weeks will be hard to beat.
Enjoy and take good care of this very special place.
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Phelps Creek crossing
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