Little Kachess Trail

Little Kachess Trail is a challenging out-and-back hike in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, starting at Kachess Campground and ending at the junction with Mineral Creek Trail #1331. It follows the upper western shore of Little Kachess Lake with only intermittent chances to get right down to the water.

The route is characterized by repeated climbs and descents meant to skirt cliffs and glaciated rock along the lake edge. Expect a long stretch of rugged tread that frequently changes grade, plus occasional handholds cut into rock and narrow, sloping sections.

The defining obstacle is Box Canyon Creek: the bridge on the trail is removed, so hikers cross by fording only during low-water periods (late August–September). Attempting the crossing outside low-water conditions is dangerous.

Near the trailhead, you’ll descend toward where the Box Canyon Creek bridge used to be and then get onto a fairly level section for a short distance before the trail steepens into the more rugged, cliff-avoiding segment.

Along the way, the trail parallels the shoreline but stays farther back in most places; there are only a few spots where it comes close to the lake. A short new section near the north end was constructed to move the trail within sight of the lake.

Bicycles are legal on this trail but extremely difficult; it’s recommended for experts only. The trail is hiker-only in terms of restrictions for use/management, with foot travel designated and ground surface.

More information: Visitor information, Little Kachess - Washington Trails Association