Wildhorse Creek Trail toward Frosty Pass

Explore a sprawling creek valley complete with thick forest, open country, countless streams and rugged ridges sprouting granite peaks. Follow in the footsteps of sheepherders and stockmen of yore to find trailside perches presiding over tree-filled basins and long views of wild alpine landscape. Those pressing onward can discover hidden alpine lakes and windy mountain passes.

Start the hike from the White Pine Trailhead, diving into thick mixed forest along the White Pine Trail #1582 (officially two words, though Whitepine Creek is one). Enter the Alpine Lakes Wilderness at 1.0 mile and march toward the junction with the Wildhorse Creek Trail #1592 at the 2.5-mile mark. Here the White Pine Creek Trail veers down to Whitepine Creek and continues up the valley. Keep left and begin down the Wildhorse Creek Trail.

Briefly follow Wildhorse Creek before switchbacking up the shoulders of the Chiwaukum Mountains to begin a traverse above the valley. As you progress note the campsites scattered along the trail; all come standard with private viewpoints and nearby creek access. Push onward to the 4.9-mile mark, to a particularly good set of campsites and the turnaround point for dayhikers.

Likely a basecamp for sheepherders, the turnaround point is located at an unsigned junction. This unmarked, but well-worn trail leads up to Deadhorse Pass and drops steeply down to Cup Lake and Larch Lake beyond. Find views at the lower camp by following a short path out to a broad opening in the trees.

There's a lot more to Wildhorse Creek, 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!