Trail

Agnes Gorge Trail

Trail

A 5-mile roundtrip easy-to-moderate day hike ending at Agnes Creek's 200-foot cascade through a narrow gorge. The trail rolls gently through varied terrain—from open dry slopes to cedar forests—with views of jagged Agnes Peak and abundant wildflowers in early to mid-summer. Spring and early summer bring wet, muddy sections that slow pace and test footing. You'll see remnants of a historic suspension bridge (concrete abutments and metal components) at the gorge.

Quick facts

Distance Miles
5
Route Type
Out-and-back
Difficulty Level
Easy to Moderate—steady rolling grade, not steep
Elevation Gain Feet
500

Trail profile

Distance Miles
5
Route Type
Out-and-back
Difficulty Level
Easy to Moderate—steady rolling grade, not steep
Elevation Gain Feet
500
Estimated Time
3 hours if fit, 4-5 if you linger at the gorge
Trail Surface
Forest floor with roots and rocks; wet and muddy in spring and early summer, drying out by mid-summer
Trail Features
  • 200-foot cascading waterfall
  • Narrow gorge
  • Agnes Peak views
  • Cedar and mixed forest
  • Wildflower meadows
  • Historic suspension bridge remnants
  • Varied vegetation zones
Trail Highlights
Agnes Creek's 200-foot cascade plunging into a narrow gorge, framed by jagged Agnes Peak. Historic suspension bridge abutments and metal components offer a curious artifact at the trail's end. Diverse forest zones and wildflower displays (early-mid summer) provide visual rewards throughout.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location
Near High Bridge, 11 miles up Stehekin Valley Road from Stehekin Landing. Cross river at High Bridge, continue 0.25 miles up valley; trailhead on left side.
Shuttle Required
0
Shuttle Details
Private vehicle access via Stehekin Valley Road from Stehekin Landing (11 miles). No shuttle mentioned in park data; plan for private transport or tour access to Stehekin Valley area.

Permits & conditions

Permit Details
Day use only—no overnight camping allowed along this trail in the park or national forest. Nearest backcountry camps are High Bridge and Tumwater, both on Stehekin Valley Road. Backcountry permits required for any overnight stays in the park complex.
Fees
No entrance fee for North Cascades National Park. America the Beautiful annual pass ($80) covers all federal recreation sites.
Trail Status
Open during park operational season (late May–late September)
Seasonal Closures
Typically closed December through May due to snow and park operational limits. Park Service Complex operates year-round with limited services outside May-September window.

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead
0
Water Sources
Agnes Creek at trail end (must filter). Bring 2L water minimum from start; do not rely on finding water en route.
Accessibility
Rooty forest floor with wet and muddy sections in spring; gentle rolling terrain without steep pitches. Accessible to average hikers with reasonable fitness.

Safety & strategy

Hazards
  • Wet and muddy conditions (spring through early summer)
  • Gorge drop-offs (cliff edges near cascade)
  • Grizzly bear encounters possible
  • Limited cell service
  • Remote location, no facilities
Hazard Details
Trail becomes slippery and muddy through June; expect boot suction and slow pace. Gorge has steep drop-offs—stay back from edge, especially in wind. Grizzly bears in area require 100-yard distance; carry bear spray and make noise. Limited to no cell service; carry emergency supplies and whistle. Nearest help is ranger station at Stehekin, miles away.
Cell Service
Limited to unreliable; plan for zero cell coverage
Crowd Level
Ghost town compared to main park trails; lightly trafficked
Peak Crowd Times
Summer weekends, particularly July; early-morning hours fill quickly
Best Season
Late May through early September (park operational season); avoid winter snow closures
Best Time To Visit
Early to mid-summer (June-July) for wildflowers and stable weather. Avoid spring and early summer (before late June) when muddy. Start by 6:00 AM to secure daylight return.
Tips Advice
  • Bring 2L water minimum—filter at Agnes Creek; no water at trailhead
  • Trekking poles essential for muddy sections and descent control
  • Make noise constantly for bears; stay 100+ yards if you encounter one
  • Wildflowers peak early-mid summer; plan your visit around June-July bloom
  • Do not touch historic bridge remnants; document with photos only

More details

Park Area
Stehekin / High Bridge area
Trail Markers
Well-worn trail with clear path in most sections; markers may be sparse in dense forest—map recommended
Dogs Allowed
No
Shade Level
Mixed exposure—open dry slopes early on, dense cedar forest mid-trail provides relief from sun
Emergency Contacts
Stehekin Ranger Station (via Stehekin Valley Road); park emergency phone at Stehekin Landing. Carry whistle and emergency supplies; limited cell coverage in area.
Map Recommended
1
Snow Dates
December through May (typical high-country snow); lingering snow possible through June in cold years
Mud Season
Spring through early summer (April through June); conditions improve by mid-June
Wildflower Peak
Early to mid-summer (June-July)
Insider Tips
  • The suspension bridge was removed long ago, but concrete abutments and weathered metal components remain—fascinating local history; photograph but don't disturb
  • Wildflower display is exceptional early-mid summer; photographers should prioritize June-July window for peak blooms
  • Trail continues into Glacier Peak Wilderness; Agnes Creek Trailhead (separate location) leads to Pacific Crest Trail if you want backcountry extension
  • Water from Agnes Creek is cold and clear but must be filtered—Giardia present in remote areas
  • False-flat sections early on will tempt speed; save energy for the return descent
Recent Updates
Trail remains stable. Historic suspension bridge components visible but deteriorated; preserving original abutments and metal artifacts. No recent closures or major reroutes reported.
Family Friendly Notes
Suitable for children 8+ with adult supervision. Gorge drop-offs require constant oversight and hand-holding for younger kids. Muddy conditions (spring-early summer) test balance and comfort for small children; boots with good grip essential.
Nearby Facilities
High Bridge Campground and Tumwater Campground on Stehekin Valley Road. Outdoor Recreation Information Center at park entrance (seasonal, late May–late September). No services at trailhead.
Review Summary
Hikers praise the moderate gain and scenic gorge payoff. The main friction: muddy conditions in spring and early summer slow pace and test footing. Most rate it as accessible, rewarding, and worth the remote Stehekin Valley access for the unique cascade and forest diversity.

Location

Frequently asked questions

Are bears a real concern here?

Yes. Grizzlies are in this area. Make noise constantly, carry bear spray, and maintain 100-yard distance. If you encounter a bear, do not run; back away slowly while facing the bear.

Can I do this trail alone?

Yes, but carry a whistle, emergency supplies, and tell someone your itinerary. Remote location with no cell service. Solo hiking adds risk—start early and know your physical limits.

How muddy does it get in spring?

Very muddy through June. Trekking poles and boots with grip are essential. Trail improves by mid-June but shaded sections stay wet all season. Test conditions at High Bridge before committing.

Will I see wildflowers?

Yes, peak bloom is early-mid summer (June-July). Lupine, Indian paintbrush, and others line the trail. Check park conditions before going; late spring trips have fewer blooms.

Is this suitable for my 8-year-old?

Yes, if they're fit and supervised closely. Gorge drop-offs require constant hand-holding and oversight. Muddy spring conditions may exhaust younger kids; wait until mid-June for better footing.

What's the water situation on trail?

No water at trailhead. Agnes Creek at trail end is the only source and must be filtered (Giardia risk). Bring 2L minimum from start; don't bank on finding water en route.

Do I need special gear?

Trekking poles strongly recommended (especially for muddy sections and descent). Good boots with grip, topographic map, whistle, emergency supplies, bear spray, and 2L water minimum. Gaiters useful in spring mud.

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Sources

Editorial review: YourNPGuide Editorial Team. Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research; no firsthand visit is implied unless explicitly documented. Learn how YourNPGuide works.

Last updated July 2026. Report an issue.