Shortcut to Pratt River Trail #1035
Explore the Pratt River Trail #1035 via the more "traditional" approach of fording the Middle Fork Snoqualmie River at the height of summer.
Total Distance: 3.6 miles
Total Ascent: 300ft
Highest Point: 1300ft
Total Ascent: 300ft
Highest Point: 1300ft
To get there, take I-90 to exit 34 and take a left onto 468th Ave. Follow the road past the truck stop for about a half-mile until you reach SE Middle Fork Road, also known as Forest Road 56. Turn right and follow the road for a few twists and turns, keeping left when the road splits. After 2.2 miles reach SE Dorothy Lake Road. Turn left and continue 6.6 miles to the Pratt River Bar pullout on the right side of the road. If you prefer not to ford the river, continue on to the Middle Fork Campground and start the hike from the Gateway Bridge. View Google Directions >>
The hike begins at the Pratt River Bar Trailhead, a pullout along FR 56. Cross the new bridge over a small creek and follow the path as it wanders through blackberries and cottonwood toward the sound of the river. Once you reach the river, head upstream for a few hundred yards while looking across the water for a small trail leading up the embankment. Once you locate it, ford the river and follow the trail a short distance up to the Pratt River Connector Trail. Head right along the wide and well-maintained trail for a few tenths of a mile as the trail connects with the old railroad grade and begins its way up the river valley. Eventually follow signs leading to a giant tree that is the stopping point for more day hikers.There's a lot more to Pratt River Shortcut, and you can learn all about it in Alpine Lakes Wilderness: The Complete Hiking Guide. 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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