Neiderprum Trail

The first portion of this hike follows the old road for about one and a quarter miles. It gradually ascends to the trailhead and upon hitting the actual trail begins climbing, becoming steeper as you head upward. This trail will certainly give the cardiovascular system a real work out, but the views make it worth it.

As you hike up the switchbacks you will see a sign to the left posted on a tree marking the border of the Boulder River Wilderness. As you near your destination, you come to a slide area that opens to some great views to the north of the town of Darrington, Sauk River Valley and the mountains beyond.

Beyond the slide the trail becomes steeper and brushy with the occasional fallen tree to navigate over or around. Occasionally there will be an opening through the trees to get a peak at the surrounding mountains to the northeast.

Approach the summit and head down to "the flat", an area that has amazing views. This small level clearing was once the mining cabin of Chas Neiderprum. Beyond this point the trail is marked very little and disappears in the brush. Continuing on is a climber's route to the peaks of Whitehorse Mountain which requires climbing skills and appropriate equipment.

As you make your way back down the trail imagine once a man leading pack horses laden with heavy ore making this same trip, also keep in mind that the Forest Service has added improvements to some of these switchbacks to make the descent more gradual.