Navaho Pass

Navaho Pass trail offers a variety of terrain, hiking through dry forest and along creeks and into ponderosa pine forests, traveling up steep switchbacks and also more moderate grades. At the top of the pass we'll have views of the Stuart Range, and to the east, the Ingalls Creek Valley. At 11 miles with 3,000 feet gain, the hike is rated hard on the WTA site. As usual, we'll hike at our own paces, stop at intersections, and have a great time. There's a route from the pass to Navaho Peak, but that's not currently part of our plan.
NOTE: If the forecast at Navaho includes smoke, our backup plan is Lake Lillian (9 miles, 2000' gain; arrive at 8:15 a.m.). Here's the link: https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/lake-lillian

WTA directions to Navaho Pass trailhead: From Seattle, head east on I-90 to exit 85 for East Cle Elum. Cross the freeway on the overpass and turn right onto Hwy 970. Cross the Teanaway River bridge, and in seven miles turn left onto Teanaway Road. Proceed on Teanaway Road for approximately 7 miles, bearing right where it becomes the North Fork Teanaway Road. Follow the North Fork Teanaway Road for approximately 6 miles to the end of the pavement at 29 Pines Campground. Take a slight right onto gravel Forest Road 9737. Follow Forest Road 9737 for a little over a mile. At the first junction after crossing the bridge over Stafford Creek, turn right onto FR-9703, which is signed for Stafford Creek and drive 2.5 miles to the Stafford Creek trailhead.

Let’s be at the trailhead by 8:45 AM and be ready to hike by about 9:00 AM.

CARPOOL INFO: Look for carpool and other info in the EVENT CHAT section. Look for the blue bar under the trailhead locator map.

Length 11.0 miles
Elevation gain 3,000’
Pass: Northwest Forest Pass or Senior Pass
Privy: At the trailhead.
WTA Link: https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/navaho-pass

And let’s all be Covid careful. Must be fully vaxed with at least one booster and please cancel if you don't feel well.