Tatoosh Buttes Trail
Tatoosh Buttes Trail (#485) is a wilderness hiking route in the Pasayten Wilderness of Washington’s Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, managed by the Methow Valley Ranger District. It’s built for long days and remote navigation, with steep climbs and long stretches between forested drainages and the high open-meadow country on the buttes.
Trail access is via connecting wilderness routes rather than a single standalone trailhead: the route links Point Defiance Trail (#471) just east of its junction with Robinson Creek Trail (#478) on the western end, and it meets Hidden Lakes Trail (#477) between Big Hidden Lake and Middle Hidden Lake on the eastern end. A direct start at “Tatoosh Buttes” typically isn’t used because the route is intended as a connector through the wilderness.
The trail profile is all about gaining and losing elevation around the buttes. It starts in big timber at Hidden Lakes and climbs through forest into open meadows on the buttes, then drops back into timber as it descends into the Pasayten drainage. Expect steep grades to build quickly once you leave the lower forest zones.
Open ridges and meadow country dominate the upper portion, with wildflower habitat on the buttes and a network of ridge walking for exploring once you’re up high. There are also short cross-country routes to three fishing lakes available from the buttes area.
Water planning matters late in the summer: water on top of the buttes can be scarce. Carry enough for the high country sections and be prepared for limited natural sources when conditions are dry.
Expect trail conditions to be shaped by fire history and blowdowns. The area has had significant fire activity, and down trees and limited shade are common; route-finding and stepping over logs can be part of the day, especially after disturbance.
For planning and permits: wilderness permit is required for entry into the Pasayten Wilderness (free self-issue at the trailhead). Motorized vehicles and mechanized transport aren’t allowed on the route; the trail is designated for standard/terra surface travel and is for hiking (bicycle use is not supported).
More information: Visitor information, Visitor information, Traversing Blowdowns in the Pasayten Wilderness