Stetattle Creek Trail

Never a day passes but that I do myself the honor to commune with some of nature's varied forms.
– George Washington Carver

 

Distance - one way	Elevation gain	Use	Difficulty
To trail's end: 3.0 miles (4.8 km)	1,100 feet (335 m)	Hiking only	Moderate

 

The first section of trail provides nice views of Stetattle Creek.

Rosemary Seifried

The Stetattle Creek Trail begins at the Diablo townsite in the moist westside forest. This creek and forest walk is an adventuresome day hike or climber access to areas beyond, and is often snow-free early. However, it is not a good hike for those looking for an easy stroll, as the lower portions of the trail require some rock scrambling along the rivers edge. The rugged and little used trail follows Stetattle Creek, then climbs into the forest, crossing several side tributaries before dwindling to an end. There are no designated campsites along this trail. See the detailed trail description for more information.

 

Special Concerns:

• Pets and hunting are not allowed in North Cascades National Park (beyond the switchbacks)
• Trail is primitive with limited maintenance
• Use caution on creek crossings

Backcountry Camping: A backcountry permit is required for all overnight stays. Permits are limited. There is no camping along this trail. Crosscountry camping is allowed at least one-half mile from the trail, which in this rugged valley can be difficult to achieve.

Access: Drive State Route 20 to milepost 126, and turn into the town of Diablo (not Diablo Dam). The trailhead is located just past the Stetattle Creek Bridge at the entrance to the town. Park in a small turnout to the right. The trail begins by following the creek past a housing area before entering the forest.

 

The trail crosses numerous side streams and waterfalls

NPS Photo

Detailed Trail Description

The first mile (1.6 km) follows the bank of Stettatle Creek. Enjoy the lush carpet of moss and ferns. Watch for the water ouzel ("dipper"), a slate-gray bird. This bird sits on rocks in mid-stream and bobs up and down. The bobbing motion allows the bird to have depth perception in the water. In a flash it will dive into the current and come up some distance away with an insect or larvae in its beak. Listen for the chittering of the winter wren. This tiny brown bird is recognized by its upright spiked tail.

Leaving the creek, the trail ascends quickly but briefly, then continues on a more mellow plane through a mature forest. Look and listen for owls and deer. The trail narrows and crosses several streams, becoming less distinct before dwindling to an end at around 3 miles (4.8 km) from the trailhead. Do not venture beyond the distinct path unless you are prepared for route-finding and crosscountry travel.

Tributaries of Stetattle Creek originate high in the glaciers of McMillan Spires and Davis Peak. Glaciers grind rock into tiny particles which are carried in the water. Light refracting around these particles gives Stetattle Creek its blue-green hues.

Stetattle Creek, in the heart of the Skagit Gorge, was the natural boundary between the Upper Skagit Indians and their northern enemies from the Fraser River Valley. The word "Stetattle" may have originated from the Skagit name which referred to these people from the north.

 

Ninety-three percent of North Cascades National Park Service Complex is designated as the Stephen Mather Wilderness, set aside by law for "the American people of present and future generations" for our protection and enjoyment. Please follow all Leave No Trace hiking and camping practices to reduce your impact on this special place and leave it unimpaired for future generations.