Swauk Forest Discovery Trail — Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2025

All of Blewett Pass was swarming with fire crews and firefighting activity today, but the trailhead was still open to recreation. Accessing the parking lot requires a short drive up a forest service road after turning off of the highway which was snow covered and very rough. A low car with poor tires might struggle a bit here. Once parked you can hike the loop in either direction (my preference has always been counterclockwise). There are a few large downed trees that require navigating around or under and the trail is mostly packed snow and ice. While I didn't use my microspikes due to having a pretty aggressive tread on my boots, you may find them helpful for traction on the steeper pitches. In the few sun-exposed areas where the snow has melted off, the trail was very wet and muddy. Crocs and flimsy sneakers are going to have a bad time, you've been warned!

LARCHES: STILL VERY GREEN!
These are Western larches (different species than the Alpine larches found around the North Cascades and Enchantments areas) so they tend to turn golden several weeks later than the other higher elevation species. Wait another week or two if that is your sole purpose for driving over Blewett Pass.