Location
The Rainbow Creek trail provides day-hike diversions to visitors to the Stehekin Valley, but you'll need more than a few hours to truly appreciate the full length of the trail.
A visit to the expansive meadows of McAlester Pass, the cool waters of Rainbow Lake, and the high country beyond beckon backpackers on a loop hike more than 30 miles long.
Rainbow Creek Trail
North Cascades
Length
33.0 miles, roundtrip
Elevation
Rating
Parking Pass/Entry Fee
None
Highway 20 Closure: Highway 20 is closed between Silver Star (Milepost 170) and Early Winter Campground (Mileposte 177) while crews fight an active wildfire in the area. This closure is dated 7.12.21
A backcountry permit is required to camp overnight in North Cascades National Park. Permits must be picked up in person at one of the park's Wilderness Information Centers
Rainbow Creek Trail
Map & Directions
Trailhead
Open map in new windowGetting There
From Stehekin, take the shuttle bus or walk to the lower Rainbow Loop Trailhead, about 2.5 from the dock on the Stehekin Valley Road. To access the Rainbow Creek Trail from Hwy 20, drive to mile 159, marked for the Bridge Creek Trailhead.
Parking Pass/Entry Fee
None
Highway 20 Closure: Highway 20 is closed between Silver Star (Milepost 170) and Early Winter Campground (Mileposte 177) while crews fight an active wildfire in the area. This closure is dated 7.12.21
A backcountry permit is required to camp overnight in North Cascades National Park. Permits must be picked up in person at one of the park's Wilderness Information Centers
