Carne Mountain — Saturday, Oct. 8, 2005

Central Cascades > Stevens Pass - East

The subalpine larches in Carne Basin are peaking. They grow abundantly between Chiwawa Ridge and the Entiat range. The Carne Mountain trail is steep and strenuous (3700 feet in 4 miles), with the delightful Carne Basin at 6100 feet and grand views of Chiwawa Ridge, Phelps Ridge, and the Entiats from Carne Mtn. The Carne Mountain trail begins just up the Phelps Creek Trail from the trailhead (3400 feet). It switchbacks steeply up through Douglas fir and pine forest, then breaks out into an open rocky slope at 5400 feet. There are many great views of Chiwawa Ridge here. The switchbacks continue, finally entering the level basin at 6100 feet. Light snow began about 6000 feet. Carne Basin is surrounded by larches, and they shone with a beautiful golden color. From here the trail continues to switchback up to the ridge between Carne Mtn and Old Gib. The trail splits partway up. Turn left for Carne Mtn. Once atop the ridge, after gazing down into the lovely Rock Creek Valley, it is an easy walk to the summit of Carne, 7085 feet. Road directions: from US 2 take the Lake Wenatchee road, bear right onto Chiwawa Loop Road, turn left onto Chiwawa River Road and drive 22.5 miles (almost to Trinity). Turn right onto Phelps Creek Road, which dead-ends at the trailhead.