Easy Pass Trail

Easy Pass Trail (#741) is a steep, strenuous out-and-back hike in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest that climbs to Easy Pass at about 6,500 ft. It follows Easy Pass Creek up through forested lowlands, then transitions into more exposed alpine terrain as you gain elevation.

The route starts near Highway 20 and quickly enters the woods. Early miles include creek crossings—Granite Creek on a footlog/bridge is right near the trailhead area—before the climb builds and the trail starts working steadily uphill.

Around the midsection you leave the forest more fully and hike across a wide rocky alpine meadow valley floor. Expect exposure and very limited shade from here onward, with the trail continuing to gain height toward the pass.

The final push is steep and involves switchbacks through talus and rockier sections on the way to Easy Pass. The pass area is where hikers typically stop—subalpine larches (golden in autumn) are a notable seasonal highlight.

On the way, there are also long streamside stretches where Easy Pass Creek is within earshot, but water availability can be inconsistent late in the season near the pass. Trekking poles help on steep, rocky ground, and a secure plan for a creek crossing is important earlier in the hike.

Length and effort put this firmly in the hard category: roughly 7.0–7.6 miles roundtrip with about 2,800–3,000 ft of elevation gain. A Northwest Forest Pass is required for parking at the trailhead.

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