Glacier Basin Trail #719

It’s a rough climb to reach this often-overlooked alpine cirque, but what you’ll find is well worth the effort. This secluded basin feels like a hidden wonderland complete with waterfalls, wildflowers and relics of Monte Cristo’s mining past.

This is not an easy hike, and it is likely a little too long for most day hikers. Some of the distance can be removed by biking to Monte Cristo, but hauling your bike across the South Fork Sauk River isn’t for everyone. However, this does make for a decent weekend backpacking trip, and you’re unlikely to meet too many other folks on this less-traveled trail.

There's a lot more to Glacier Basin, and you can learn all about it in Hiking through History Washington: Exploring the Evergreen State's Past by Trail, and Washington Wildflower Hikes: 50 Destinations. You'll find a trail map, route descriptions, history, and more for this and many other hikes throughout the State. Help support hikingwithmybrother.com and the work we do by picking up a copy!