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

Imus Creek Trail - 1mi Easy Loop Hike

Q: 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.

Q: 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.

Q: 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.

Q: 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.

Distance

1 mi

Elevation Gain

200 ft

Est. Time

1–1.5 hours for most hikers; 30–45 minutes if you move quickly.

Route Type

Loop

Dogs Allowed

Best Season

Late June to early September

Overview

About This Trail

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.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Easy

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.

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.

Best Season to Hike

Late June to early September

Hiking Tips

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).

Family Info

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.

What Hikers Say

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.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 1 miles

Elevation Gain: 200 ft

Duration: 1–1.5 hours for most hikers; 30–45 minutes if you move quickly.

Difficulty: Easy

Route Type: Loop

Surface: Service road (dirt/gravel) for the first and final sections; packed forest trail through the interior loop.

Getting There

Trailhead: Behind the Golden West Visitor Center at Stehekin Landing. From Stehekin Landing, walk up past the Visitor Center; trailhead is marked just behind it.

Requirements

Permit Required

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.

Shuttle Available

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.

Trail Rules

Dogs: Leashed dogs allowed on this trail.

Trail Markers: Well-marked trail. The service road start is clear, and the forest loop is well-worn and easy to follow.

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: No reliable water source on-trail. Carry all water you'll need (1–1.5L minimum).

Shade: Mostly shaded. The initial service road is partially exposed; the forest section provides good shade.

Hazards:

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.

Emergency: 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.

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Moderate. This easy loop attracts families and day-hikers but isn't a major destination compared to longer Cascades trails.

Peak Times: Weekends mid-summer (July–August) can be busy during afternoon hours; mornings are quieter.

Accessibility & Family

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.

Family Notes:

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.

What Hikers Say

FAQs

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?

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

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

Can I bring my dog?

Do I need special gear or permits?

🏞️ National Park Service 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works →

Visit Website