

The Smith Brook trail starts off with several switchbacks, then continues up to Union Gap where it meets the Pacific Crest Trail. Turn south (left) at Union Gap and continue hiking until you reach the gap between Mount Lichtenberg and McCausland, where you get a first glimpse of Lake Valhalla.

Just before reaching the gap, a boot trail follows the ridge up to an old lookout site at Mount McCausland. Less then a half a mile and 600 feet of climbing and you will reach the top, where you will have a great view of Glacier Peak to the north. There are lots of huckleberries in the meadows along this trail.

Pass over the gap and descend to Lake Valhalla. There are a number of overnight campsites and a couple of backcountry toilets at the lake, although campfires are not permitted. There is a very pleasant sandy beach at the lake as well, which is perfect for lunch and relaxing in the summer.

Lake Valhalla Backcountry Camping

Old Cascades Highway Dispersed

Located along the Little Wenatchee River, 11 miles from Lake Wenatchee.

Lake Creek Campground

Located 10 miles away from Lake Wenatchee, this small campground provides access to Rainy Creek.

Rainy Creek Campground

Dispersed camping is the term used for camping in the National Forest OUTSIDE of a designated campground. Typically, it refers to roadside car camping, but also refers to backpacking in undeveloped sites. Dispersed camping means there are no services like trash removal, and amenities such as toilets, tables and fire pits, are not usually available.

It is your responsibility to plan ahead and learn the extra skills necessary for dispersed camping. Camping rules and regulations apply to make your experience safe, and to keep the natural resource.


Dispersed Camping Beckler Creek

## Overview

Situated along at the banks of the tranquil Beckler River in Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, this campground offers some of the most stunning scenery in the Northern Cascade Range of Washington.  
  
The spacious campsites are nestled in a dense old-growth forest of Douglas fir, cedar and western hemlock, and are within walking distance to the river.  
  
Campers will find a wide variety of recreational activities in the North Fork Skykomish, Beckler River and West Fork Foss River areas.

## Recreation

In addition to being a prime location for hiking, biking and fishing in the summer and early fall, Beckler River offers excellent skiing and snowshoeing in the winter months.  
  
The Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest boasts 1,500 miles of trails. From smooth paths meandering through deep quiet forests to challenging ascents up boulder-studded mountains, opportunities abound for every skill level.  
  
Starting at the Jennifer Dunn Trailhead, the Beckler Peak Trail offers hikers the opportunity to view the diverse landscapes of the area from a variety of perspectives. Starting out on a decommissioned logging road, the trail climbs through young alder and vine maple to an expansive vista of the Skykomish Valley. The trail continues to switchback through massive trees and by the remains of a trapper's cabin. The final ridge affords hikers panoramic views of near and distant peaks.

## Facilities

Beckler River campground offers standard sites, accommodating both tent and RV camping. Picnic tables, vault toilets and drinking water are provided.  
  
Access to the Skykomish River is available from the campground, and several sites are near the river's edge.

## Natural Features

Hemmed in by several designated wilderness areas, the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest showcases rugged peaks, sparkling alpine lakes and old-growth forests.  
  
Mt. Baker, the most prominent feature of the Mt. Baker Wilderness Area, dominates the landscape on a clear day. Rising to an elevation of 10,781 feet, this active volcano is perpetually snow-capped and mantled with an extensive network of creeping glaciers. Mt. Baker's summit, Grant Peak, is actually a 1,300-foot-deep mound of ice, which hides a massive volcanic crater.  
  
The undeveloped wilderness, clean streams and diverse forests support a variety of wildlife, including mountain goats, coyotes, pine marten, a variety of migratory birds and native fish. 

## contact_info

For facility specific information, please call (360) 386-8214. 

## Nearby Attractions

Visitors enjoy the North Cascades and Mt. Rainer National Parks, where interpretive programs and exhibits offer education about the diverse landscape and history of the area.  
  
The spectacular Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), one of the world's premier National Scenic Trails, showcases some of North America's most fantastic scenery, winding its way its way from Mexico to Canada through California, Oregon and Washington, and is accessible near the campground.

Beckler River Campground

Traveling along Highway 2, enter the center of the forest along the Skykomish River, a rafting adventurers' dream. Grab your skis! In just two hours you will be gliding down the slopes at Stevens Pass Ski Area. Check in at the Stevens Pass Historic District for an overview of the area's colorful railroad and mining past. Recreation Area Map National Scenic Byway

US Highway 2 - Skykomish Area east to Stevens Pass

French Creek

Accessibility is not guaranteed, always scout ahead before driving down dirt roads. Learn more: https://www.campendium.com/camping/boondocking-101/

Napeequa Crossing Campground

Grasshopper Meadows Campground

Hidden Lake 

This camp site was so beautiful and peaceful. I loved the view and the snow there didn't bother me one bit. I plan to visit this spot many times this year and future years to come. 

Breath taking 

This was a gorgeous hike along the pacific crest trail (PCT) that ended at a beautiful alpine lake. The hike was a bit over 4 miles long over a slightly rockey terrain and some small patches of snow but overall wasn't too difficult. There were several campsites right next to the lake that were nicely placed and set up, however, there fires aren't aloud so pack warmly. I ended up camping on the beach right on the lake was so scerene but loaded with mosquitoes at night so bring bug spray. You can follow the PCT partially around the lake to do more exploring and even swim if you're daring enough to brave the cold waters. Overall it was a exquisite backpacking trip and I myself will definitely be doing it again.

Lake Valhalla Backcountry Camping

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