Icicle Ridge Lookout

Icicle Ridge Lookout is located on a 6 mile switchback trail that winds up the southeastern side of Icicle Ridge. On this trail, you will pass through a lush green forest full of maples, Ponderosa pines and wildflowers. The Ponderosa pines have black scars on them from past fires. There will be a plethora of Lupines if you do this hike in the late spring or summer months. I hiked this trail in June, so there were Lupines aplenty.

As you travel up the trail you will have sweeping views of Wenatchee River and Icicle Creek Valley. Besides breathtaking views, wildlife is another thing that you might encounter. I saw a bull snake slithering through the grass and heard from other hikers that they had seen a baby black bear. Bears are known to roam around Leavenworth and the surrounding wilderness, so I would recommend carrying bear spray with you just in case one comes across your path. One good thing about black bears is they’re pretty easy to scare away.

When you finally arrive at the saddle of Icicle Ridge, you have the option to turn left or right. If you turn left, the trail meets up with Fourth of July Creek Trail and the Alpine Wilderness Boundary and beyond in a 29.6 mile long journey. The lookout was my only destination, so I opted to turn right. The short path to the lookout leads you to an open area with 360 degree views of Leavenworth, Tumwater Canyon, and Icicle Creek Valley. If you do this hike before late summer, Drury Falls can be visible on the west side of Tumwater Canyon to your left.

Note for the reader: I share these locations so that others can see beautiful places and enjoy nature as much as I do. Please be respectful of the outdoors and what condition it is in when you visit. Don’t go off trail, leave no trace, and pack out what you came in with.