Buckskin Ridge Trail

Buckskin Ridge Trail is a rugged long-distance hike in Washington’s Pasayten Wilderness, accessed from the Okanogan–Wenatchee National Forest. It runs as a ridge traverse that alternates subalpine forest with stretches above timberline, crossing high ridges and passes and dropping down toward the Pasayten River after reaching Buckskin Lake.

A common starting point is Slate Pass Trailhead (about 6,900 ft). From there, the route is typically described as an end-to-end trip of about 16 miles; many people stitch it into a longer loop that totals roughly 32+ miles depending on the additions and how you structure the days.

Expect terrain that mixes open, exposed ridge travel with forested tread, along with challenging climbs and steep descents. The route passes high mountain lakes—Silver Lake and Buckskin Lake—so day length and water planning are largely driven by which lake(s) you’re using as a milestone and camping option.

The trail crosses two passes and “mostly stays above timberline,” which means conditions can change fast and you’ll spend significant time on ground that feels more exposed than the surrounding valleys. There’s also a cut-off near about 0.5 mile that can connect to Robinson Creek–Middle Fork Trail #478, enabling loop variations via the Middle Fork or West Fork drainages.

For permits and logistics, Pasayten Wilderness entry requires a free permit filled out at the trailhead. Trail Number 498, and it’s a standard trail built for foot travel; horse and bicycle access are not part of the described route profile.

Seasonally, fall is singled out for golden larches, while summer is associated with wildflowers in the alpine meadows and around the lake basins—so plan for long bright days or cooler shoulder-season weather depending on when you go.

More information: Visitor information, training hike: buckskin ridge in the pasayten wilderness, Buckskin Ridge, Robinson Creek (Middle Fork Pasayten ...