Wenatchee Okanogan – Eastern Washington September 2024
Its been 10 years since we’ve ridden here. Probably because it’s imtimidating. The rides are long and the area is remote. We decided to go there this September since our Alaska trip was cut short. It’s also as easy to get to as our Okanagan valley. So another great option for fall riding!
Google Maps link to our Route.
For this trip we were going to redo some rides we did in 2014 with Jameson. Now that Jameson is more tuned into the community he said we should check out this other trail up the Chiwawa River Road. The Trans Cascadia crews have been doing an incredible job opening up some epic routes. We also rode some more mellow trails.
We camped at the Nason Creek Campground. We reserved to ensure we had a site, you probably don’t have to during the off season except on nice weekends. This is a nice site, close to the creek, also close to SR207 so loud in the mornings. You could also stay at Lake Wenatchee State Park just further up SR207. Or closer to the trails in more rustic sites about 14 miles up Chiwawa River Road ( Goose Creek, Grouse Creek, Finner, Rock Creek, Schaefer Creek ).
Nason Creek has some cellular activity, further away there is no cell service.
We arrive at Nason Creek late in the afternoon to set up and and check out the site.
The First day of riding we decided to check out the Leavenworth Ski Hill Trails Freund and Rosie Boa. Fun, nice climbs and a good start to the trip.
Day 2 we drove 30 minutes up Chiwawa River Road, parked at Finner Creek where Basalt Ridge trail ends. We rode up the road, Up Rock Creek trail, Rock Creek Tie Trail, and down Basalt Ridge Trail.
Day 3 we rode Xanadu. A trail not on the Trailforks but well ridden. It goes through private property so be respectful.
Day 4 we drove to Loup Loup Campground near Twisp and rode the Bear Essensials. Loup Loup is FCFS, has minimal cell service, water and pit toilets.
Day 5 we moved to Big Twin Lake Resort Campground and rode Thompson Ridge Trail at Sun Mountain. This campsite is private, has showers, we stayed in site T29. This row would be the best for a tent. Hookups try to get A1-12.
Day 6 we drove back west via the North Cascade Hwy 20 to Darrington for one shuttle lap then headed home.
