Esmeralda Basin
Follow a crumbling mining road as it climbs through open pine forest and trailside flower fields on the way up to Fortune Creek Pass and big views and the possibility of going further. While the trailhead will be busy, nearly everyone is head up toward Ingalls Lake, leaving Esmerelda Basin for you to enjoy.
Total Distance: 6.8 miles
Total Ascent: 1700ft
Highest Point: 6000ft
Total Ascent: 1700ft
Highest Point: 6000ft
Take Interstate 90 to Exit 85, following signs to State Route 970; merge onto SR 970 and continue 6.5 miles to Teanaway Road. Turn left and continue 13.1 miles trading pavement for gravel to reach a fork just past 29 Pines Campground. Veer right onto Forest Road 9737 (North Fork Teanaway Road) following it 9.6 miles to the road end and the Esmerelda Trailhead. Note that there are additional forks that branch off FR 9737 that could cause confusion. Once you’re on FR 9737, always veer left when in doubt. Privy available. View Google Directions >>
Esmerelda Basin Trail #1393 begins on a wide track that still has some passing resemblance to its former life as a mining road. Saddle up alongside the North Fork Teanaway River and its boulder-and-log clogged riverbed. The sound of rushing water tumbling past this rubble will be with you for a good portion of the hike. That same water feeds the many wildflowers you’ll pass as you work your way up the valley, with small patches of flowers beginning right as the hike begins.There's a lot more to Esmeralda Basin, and you can learn all about it in 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!
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