Magnet Creek

Hike this unmaintained trail on the dry side of the Cascades. It's a scenic, wildflower wonderland, if you're willing and able to route-find your way to the ridge.

The trail, such as it is, starts in second-growth forest on a moderate grade. In 0.8 miles, it gains 550 feet of elevation through 17 switchbacks to a stump with a survey marker, and the start of a ridge walk.

Enjoy walking the ridge through scattered ponderosa pine, hemlock, lupine, and daisies, with gorgeous views to the east and west including Teanaway Ridge, Miller Mountain, the Stuart Range and more ridges and valleys.

Rugged, rocky outcroppings along the way add to the trail's beauty 1.5 miles from the trailhead, the grade increases, gaining 400 feet to a 4,000 foot viewpoint looking out over Central Washington.

From here, the trail curves to the east, topping out at 4,400 feet with expansive ridgetop views to the north and south. The last 0.2 miles of the trail descends 100 feet to meet the upper end of Road 7204. Turn right at the junction and road 7204 ends in a half mile, becoming Tiptop Trail 1204, which traces the top of Tronsen Ridge.