Glacier Peak Wilderness
Overview
Mt. Maude is one of the three "9ers" that comprise the spectacular headwaters cirque of the Entiat River, one of the major drainages on the east of the Cascade crest and a tributary of the Columbia River. The other two 9ers are Seven Fingered Jack (9,100' / 2774 m) and Mt. Fernow (9,249' / 2819 m). Fernow is the 3rd highest non-volcanic summit in the Cascade Range, after nearby Bonanza Peak and Mt. Stuart, all three of which are in Chelan County, the county of my birth. The two main approaches to Maude are, from the west, the Chiwawa River / Phelps Creek / Leroy Creek, and from the east, the Entiat River / Ice Creek. The western approach is much shorter and can be done on a 2-day weekend, whereas it is a several-day trip from the east. The standard south route of the peak is an exhilerating walk-up with ever-expanding views of the awesome North Cascades mountain wilderness.
 |  |  |  |  |
Getting There
For the Chiwawa River / Phelps Creek / Leroy Creek approach, drive east from Stevens Pass or west from Leavenworth on US Highway 2 and turn north toward Lake Wenatchee. After the Wenatchee River bridge go right at a Y, then drive 1.1 miles on county road 22 and turn left on Chiwawa River forest road number 62. Drive 24 miles to near the end of the road and turn right on the Phelps Creek road. Drive to the end of this road to the trailhead. For the east approach, drive north from Wenatchee on the highway west of the Columbia River to Entiat. Turn west on the Entiat River road to the end. Hike the Entiat River trail No. 1400 for 8ΒΌ miles to the Ice Creek trail. The Entiat River must be crossed on logs, and there may be a large log jam south of the trail if no log is present at the trail. This crossing is iffy, and may be best late in the season when the river is running with less force. It can be forded if that is not undesirable.
 |  |  |  |
Red Tape
All trails and some picnic areas and campsites in the Wenatchee National Forest require a regional pass costing $5/day or $30/year. Golden Age and Golden Access Passport holders may purchase the above pass at a 50% discount. The Golden Eagle Passport will not apply to the Regional Northwest Forest Pass. You can get them at these ranger stations. The pass can also be purchased online from the Washington Trails Association. A free wilderness permit is available at all trailheads. Party size is limited to 12 within Glacier Peak Wilderness.
When To Climb
Optimal climbing conditions occur during the months of July through September.
 |  |
Camping
Numerous forest camps and commercial camping facilities can be found on and near both approach roads. Camping is permitted within the Glacier Peak Wilderness.
Mountain Conditions
Click here for road and trail information for the Lake Wenatchee Ranger District.
 |
External Links
Additions and Corrections
[ Post an Addition or Correction ]
|
| supermarmot | red tape | |
Voted 10/10 | nw forest passes are still the same, but a couple things have changed. golden age and golden access passes work on national forests and are $10 and (free)$ respectively. the golden eagle is also valid and costs $65. | |
| Posted Aug 27, 2006 6:58 am | ||
|
