Stetattle Creek

The Stettatle Creek Trail is an infrequently-used path that delivers hikers into a deep canyon in the heart of the North Cascades. Though it clears early in the season, this may not be the best option for those looking for an easy walk -- the trail is rugged and requires scrambling in places. 

From the trailhead in Diablo, the trail immediately sets off along Stetattle, a cold, rushing creek -- perhaps more aptly called a river. You will walk past a housing area before entering the forest, and shortly after entering the forest, arrive at a washed-out section of trail. A landslide on the opposite side of the creek resulted in high water that wrecked the trail, which means it now requires a bit of a scramble to cross the washed-out section.

But beyond the washout, the trail is perfectly walkable. After 1.6 miles, the trail begins a switchbacking climb that rises several hundred feet above creek level. The narrow, mossy trail eventually levels out and traverses the slope of Sourdough Mountain in dry forest. There are glimpses of huge snowy peaks looming above, but views are limited for the most part.

Every so often, the trail crosses creeks tumbling down from the snowy heights above. The streams that feed Stetattle Creek originate high in the glaciers of McMillan Spires and Davis Peak. When the snowpack is heavy, the spring melt can swell these creeks to impassable -- use your best judgement as you press on. The trail eventually peters out after 3 miles.