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Icicle Ridge Trail

Wenatchee National Forest, Washington · 3 min read

Distance
12 mi
Elevation Gain
4,000 ft
Difficulty
strenuous
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
May through October
Est. Time
6-8 hours
Dog Friendly
Yes
Kid Friendly
No
Difficulty Score
10 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
Vault Toilet
Parking
Free
Cell Service
Limited
Water
None
Camping
None
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Ridge walk with panoramic views of the Wenatchee Valley and Stuart Range
  • One of the few long ridge hikes accessible directly from Leavenworth
  • Dogs allowed on leash, popular with Leavenworth locals year-round on lower sections
  • Extended season due to relatively low starting elevation
  • Access to the Alpine Lakes Wilderness on the upper ridge for those continuing beyond the standard turnaround
viewswildflowerssummit

Overview

Icicle Ridge climbs from the banks of Icicle Creek near Leavenworth to a long alpine ridge with views of the Wenatchee Valley, the Stuart Range, and the high Cascades. The 12.0-mile round trip is among the best long ridge hikes accessible directly from a town in Washington, Leavenworth sits at the canyon mouth, and the trailhead is 1 mile away.

The Wenatchee National Forest maintains this trail as a popular local route, and it sees consistent use from Leavenworth residents throughout the year on the lower sections. The full ridge hike is a full-day commitment with 4,000 feet of gain, but shorter options are available at clear turnaround points.

The Route

Miles 0 to 2: Forest climb. The trail climbs steeply from the Icicle Creek valley through ponderosa pine and Douglas-fir. Views open to the north across the valley.

Miles 2 to 4: First viewpoint. The ridge opens and provides the first panoramic views. Many hikers turn around here for a satisfying shorter day.

Miles 4 to 6: Upper ridge. The trail continues through open terrain with expanding views. The Alpine Lakes Wilderness boundary is near mile 5. The trail eventually connects to the Stuart Range trail system for those continuing.

When to Visit

May through October for lower sections; July through October for the full ridge. Early season (May-June) offers wildflowers in the pine forest. October brings fall color to the larch and aspen on the upper ridge.

Practical Details

No permit required for day hiking. Vault toilet at the trailhead. Water available at the trailhead from Icicle Creek; none on the ridge. For other Leavenworth-area hikes, see the Enchantments Thru-Hike and the forest guide.

Leave No Trace

This trail receives enough use that following Leave No Trace principles is important for preserving the experience for future visitors. Stay on the marked trail to prevent erosion. Pack out all waste. Avoid camping within 200 feet of water sources or the trail. Use existing fire rings only where campfires are permitted, and check current fire restrictions at checking conditions before you go before any visit. The trail and surrounding terrain remain in good condition because previous visitors have respected these norms.

Safety Considerations

The strenuous rating reflects the trail's general character under typical conditions. Weather, seasonal snow, and trail conditions can change the experience significantly. Carry the 10 Essentials on any full-day outing. Inform someone of your plans and expected return time before heading out, particularly on longer or more remote trails. Cell service varies throughout Wenatchee National Forest and may be unreliable in canyon bottoms or remote terrain.

Trailhead Parking

Icicle Ridge Trailhead off Icicle Creek Road, 1 mile west of Leavenworth. Paved lot with room for 30 vehicles. No permit required for day hiking.

← Back to Wenatchee National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Icicle Ridge Trail?
The Icicle Ridge Trail extends many miles, but the standard day hike is 12.0 miles out-and-back to an elevation of 6,200 feet with 4,000 feet of gain. Shorter options turn around at the first viewpoint (4 miles round trip with 1,500 feet of gain).
Is Icicle Ridge suitable for a first mountain hike?
The lower 2 miles are moderate and suitable for hikers building experience. The full 12-mile route is strenuous and not recommended as a first mountain hike. The lower viewpoint (4 miles round trip) is a good intermediate target.
Are dogs allowed on Icicle Ridge?
Yes, dogs are allowed on Icicle Ridge Trail and throughout the Icicle Creek corridor outside of wilderness boundaries. Keep dogs on leash. Dogs entering the Alpine Lakes Wilderness must also be on leash.
When does the Icicle Ridge Trail open?
The lower sections are often accessible from May, making Icicle Ridge one of the earlier-opening strenuous hikes in the Leavenworth area. Higher elevations retain snow longer; the upper ridge may have snow patches into late June in average years.