Cutthroat Creek Trail

Yes, the initial section of the trail leading to Cutthroat Lake is considered easy and is very suitable for families and young children. It features a gentle grade after an initial climb into a forest, making it an accessible option in an otherwise rugged area.

The hike to Cutthroat Lake is easy, covering about 3.5 to 3.8 miles roundtrip with 400 to 500 feet of elevation gain. If you continue to Cutthroat Pass, the difficulty increases to intermediate. This longer outing is about 10 to 11 miles roundtrip with 2000 to 2300 feet of elevation gain, involving steeper switchbacks and rockier terrain.

The trail offers diverse and beautiful scenery. You'll hike through forests with subalpine firs, pines, lichen, mosses, and wildflowers. As you progress, you'll get peek-a-boo glimpses of surrounding mountain peaks. Cutthroat Lake is a highlight, an alpine lake rimmed by cliffs, reflecting the mountains. Views of Cutthroat Peak and Cutthroat Ridge are also prominent.

The trail starts from the Cutthroat Creek Trailhead, located off Highway 20 in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. There is a parking area available at the trailhead.

Yes, a valid recreation pass is typically required for parking at the trailhead within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. This could be a Northwest Forest Pass, America the Beautiful Pass, or a day-use fee. Always check the latest regulations before your visit.

The route to both Cutthroat Lake and Cutthroat Pass is an out-and-back trail. You return along the same path you took to reach your destination.

The hike to Cutthroat Lake and back is approximately 3.8 miles and generally takes around 1 hour and 47 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and how long you spend enjoying the lake.

The trail is beautiful throughout the hiking season, but it is especially popular in the fall when the larch trees turn a stunning golden color. Summer offers lush greenery and wildflowers, while late spring can still have snow at higher elevations.

Yes, dogs are permitted on the trail, but they must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers.

Yes, the trail to Cutthroat Pass merges with the iconic Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), offering experienced hikers the option to extend their journey along this famous long-distance route. The route also passes through sections of the Cutthroat Creek Trail and the Cutthroat Creek Trail #483.

This trail stands out for its accessibility, offering one of the few easy hikes to Cutthroat Lake in an otherwise rugged region, making it great for families. It's also known for its spectacular fall foliage, particularly the golden larches, and is often less crowded than other popular trails in the area, even during peak season.