Perched above the picturesque Wenatchee and Icicle river valleys, the Icicle Ridge Trail offers beautiful panoramic vistas into the alpine areas around Leavenworth.
The Icicle Ridge Trail in Leavenworth is a 5 mile out and back trail. This trail is considered moderate, mainly due to the elevation gain of nearly 1,800 feet. This hike took us 3 hours, and we took our time on the ascent to admire the views.
Details:
Directions (Google Maps): To get to the Icicle Ridge Trail search for the Icicle Ridge Trail in Leavenworth, WA or click here. Note that there is a popular Icicle Gorge Trail in addition to this trail.
Directions (old school maps): From the west side of downtown Leavenworth, take Icicle Road for 1.5 miles until it ends at the trailhead.
Driving Info: The very last bit is a dirt road but it is in good shape normally. There is ample parking in the circle and the road leading up to it.
Time & Weather: We did this hike in early October. The air was crisp at the beginning but we quickly warmed up as we ascended. The weather can be variable in the Cascades so pay attention to the forecasts.
Gear: Bring layers for sun and wind protection, especially for the vista view at the end where it can get quite windy and exposed. Hiking poles are helpful too because there is an immediate ascent up the mountain.
Trail Navigation: This is a popular and easy to follow trail. It is essentially just switchbacks until you reach the ridge up top, and then you traverse across to the vista view at the end.
Water & Food: Bring water, especially when it’s hot out. Since this hike will take a few hours and there’s significant elevation gain, bring a snack to enjoy up at the top.
Trailhead Info: There is a good sized parking lot that will lead you into mountainside to begin the hike.
Pictures of the Icicle Ridge hike:
Almost immediately this hike begins ascending up the mountain. The trail is essentially constant switchbacks until you reach the ridge, so take your time and admire the spectacular views of the Wenatchee and Icicle river valleys.
After you’ve done the hard work and reached the ridge line you are rewarded with views down both sides of the mountain. Down the other way is the Wenatchee River being hugged by Highway 2.
Looking for more hikes nearby? One of Washington's best hikes is a few hours north of Leavenworth in the North Cascades. The Maple Pass Trail is a challenging but supremely rewarding hike through alpine lakes, colorful ridge lines and jaw-dropping views of the canyons of the North Cascades.
