Trail

Imus Creek Trail

Trail
A wooden bech overlooks a wide wide of surrounding hills

This 1-mile loop climbs gradually through forest above Stehekin Landing, offering views of Lake Chelan and surrounding peaks. The route begins on a service road behind the Golden West Visitor Center, enters the forest, and reaches Purple Point Campground before looping back to the trailhead via the road. It's an accessible warm-up hike with minimal exposure and moderate shade—ideal for families or as a quick reconnaissance mission before tackling harder peaks.

Quick facts

Distance Miles
1
Route Type
Loop
Difficulty Level
Easy
Elevation Gain Feet
200

Trail profile

Distance Miles
1
Route Type
Loop
Difficulty Level
Easy
Elevation Gain Feet
200
Estimated Time
1–1.5 hours for most hikers; 30–45 minutes if you move quickly.
Trail Surface
Service road (dirt/gravel) for the first and final sections; packed forest trail through the interior loop.
Trail Features
  • Lake Chelan views
  • Surrounding peaks and hills
  • Forest canopy
  • Purple Point Campground
Trail Highlights
Views of Lake Chelan and surrounding mountain peaks. Accessible forest loop with minimal elevation gain—a perfect scout mission before exploring harder North Cascades trails.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location
Behind the Golden West Visitor Center at Stehekin Landing. From Stehekin Landing, walk up past the Visitor Center; trailhead is marked just behind it.
Shuttle Required
0
Shuttle Details
No shuttle required for this trail. Stehekin is accessible via ferry from Chelan or by road from the west; check ferry schedules with the National Park Service.

Permits & conditions

Permit Details
Not required. This is a day-use trail.
Fees
No entrance fee for North Cascades National Park. The America the Beautiful Annual Pass ($80) covers entrance at all federal recreation sites.
Trail Status
Open during park operational season (late May–late September); check park conditions before visiting.
Seasonal Closures
Trail may have limited access or poor conditions outside the operational season (late May–late September). Winter snow and muddy conditions are typical outside this window.

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead
0
Water Sources
No reliable water source on-trail. Carry all water you'll need (1–1.5L minimum).
Accessibility
Flat service road for the first leg, then a gentle climb through forest. The trail is accessible for most fitness levels but has rooty sections and a 200-ft elevation gain.

Safety & strategy

Hazards
  • Exposure on open road section
  • Steep descent on return via road
  • Wildlife (bears)
Hazard Details
The service road section (both start and finish) is open and sun-exposed. The descent on the road is the steepest part of the loop (still manageable on an easy trail). Bears inhabit the area; maintain 100-yard distance if encountered. No cliffs or major drop-offs on the trail itself.
Crowd Level
Moderate. This easy loop attracts families and day-hikers but isn't a major destination compared to longer Cascades trails.
Peak Crowd Times
Weekends mid-summer (July–August) can be busy during afternoon hours; mornings are quieter.
Best Season
Late June to early September
Best Time To Visit
Mid-June to early September. The park's operational season runs late May–late September, but late June onward offers stable weather and dry trails. Start before 10 AM to beat afternoon crowds and maximize shade time.
Tips Advice
  • Stay on the marked trail—the initial service road section can be confusing.
  • Bring 1–1.5L water minimum despite the easy grade; there's no reliable water source on-trail.
  • Start early if you're hiking mid-summer; the open road section heats up fast.
  • Tuck your pack straps and watch your step on the road descent—it's the steepest part.
  • Make noise as you pass through the forest; bears inhabit this area (safe distance: 100 yards).

More details

Park Area
Stehekin area, North Cascades National Park
Trail Markers
Well-marked trail. The service road start is clear, and the forest loop is well-worn and easy to follow.
Dogs Allowed
Leashed dogs allowed on this trail.
Shade Level
Mostly shaded. The initial service road is partially exposed; the forest section provides good shade.
Emergency Contacts
For emergencies, call 911. North Cascades National Park Headquarters (non-emergency): Contact the Golden West Visitor Center at Stehekin or the Newhalem Visitor Center when in the park.
Map Recommended
0
Snow Dates
Typically snow-free by late May; check conditions with the park before early-season hikes.
Mud Season
Expect muddy sections in early June and after heavy rain. Trail dries quickly once the season is underway.
Bug Season
Mosquitoes are active mid-summer (July–August), especially near the forest and any water features; bring repellent.
Insider Tips
  • The 'loop' requires walking the road both directions; it's not a pure forest circuit.
  • If you're coming from Stehekin Landing, the trailhead is just behind the Visitor Center—don't overshoot it.
  • The best views of Lake Chelan open up partway through the forest section, not at the end.
  • This trail is perfect as a warm-up or recovery hike after a harder peak climb.
Family Friendly Notes
Very family-friendly. The short distance and easy grade make it ideal for young children and families new to hiking. The service road start is accessible and non-technical. Watch children near the road sections (they're open to vehicle traffic). Hand-holding advised on the steeper forest descents.
Nearby Facilities
Golden West Visitor Center is near the trailhead. Purple Point Campground is at the trail's end (convenient if you're camping). Limited services at Stehekin; stock up on supplies before arriving.
Review Summary
Hikers praise this loop for its accessibility and scenic Lake Chelan views. Most report it as a manageable warm-up or family outing. The main complaint is the open road section on a sunny day; early starts are key.

Location

Frequently asked questions

Can I do this trail with kids and no hiking experience?

Yes. This is designed for families. The 1-mile distance and easy grade mean even young children can finish. Bring water and snacks, and take your time.

How long does it actually take?

1–1.5 hours for most hikers. Fast hikers finish in 45 minutes; families with kids may take 1.5–2 hours if they stop for views or snacks.

Are there bears on this trail? What do I do if I see one?

Yes. Make noise as you hike (talk, clap occasionally). If you see a bear, back away slowly to 100+ yards and don't run. They typically avoid humans.

Is this trail worth doing or just a walk in the park?

It's worth doing. Lake Chelan views and surrounding peaks make it scenic, not boring. It's also a solid warm-up if you're planning harder North Cascades hikes.

Can I bring my dog?

Yes, but the dog must be leashed. The forest is wildlife habitat; keep your dog under control.

Do I need special gear or permits?

No permits. Bring water (1–1.5L), sun protection, and bug repellent. Trekking poles are optional but helpful on the road descent.

Agnes Gorge Trail

5 miles, 500ft gain. Muddy spring; wildflowers mid-summer. Easy-to-moderate ramble to a 200ft cascade.

Cascade Pass Trail

Relentless switchbacks to a glacier-rimmed pass. Most popular trail in the park—arrive early or miss the summit.

Company Creek Trail

Steep climb through forest to Bonanza Peak views. Nettles and overgrown sections demand respect.

Diablo Lake Trail

Exposed bridge crossing, 1,300ft gain. Moderate challenge with ferry escape option on return.

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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.