Dishpan Gap | Crimson Carpets

Crimson Tide
Dishpan Gap is a 5,600-foot notch in the crest of the Central Cascade Mountains located at the headwaters of the North Fork Skykomish River. This mile-high divide separating eastern Washington from western Washington is covered in a luxuriant carpet of wild blueberry bushes - setting the ground afire in crimson every autumn.

Sprawling meadows that once danced with a dazzling display of brilliant wildflowers under the summer sun up and down the Cascade Crest are now being overtaken by a crimson tide - that fiery wave of fall foliage that rolls through the Pacific Northwest like a slow-motion blaze. Streaks of scarlet stretch across miles of open alpine meadows - complemented by touches of yellow from an assortment of accompanying shrubs. This dazzling show is available for a limited time only.

The plan is to day hike to Dishpan Gap. Foliage is wonderful and alpine views even better! We will feast on berries and savor horizon spanning views of waves of jagged peaks and rows of gently rolling ridges.

Hike Stats
Distance: 18 mile roundtrip
Route Type: Out and Back
Elevation Gain: 3500'
Elevation Range: 2500' to 5600'
Difficulty Level: Moderate

This hike is not technically challenging, but is physically demanding - long mileage and steady climbs make it a workout. Endurance required. Perfect for hikers who are fit and experienced, but don’t want scrambling or exposure. Not recommended for beginners.

Trail Map
WTA
Ten Essential Items

Trailhead Location
North Fork Skykomish Trailhead
National Forest Service Road 63,
Skykomish, WA 98288
GPS: 47.92681, -121.27717

Itinerary
0630 - 0700 | Arrive at the Trailhead
0700 | Boots on the trail
1700 | Back at the Trailhead
Estimated Hiking Time | 10 hours, including breaks.
Moderate Pace.

Logistics
We will meet directly at the trailhead at the first light of the day per the schedule above. Hikers can self-organize carpools from any location, as needed. Use the messaging system and comment section below to coordinate transportation to and from the trailhead. Seattle area hikers should begin driving no later than 5 AM (average one-way driving time: 2 hours). A Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful Pass is required to park a vehicle at this trailhead.

Getting There
Nearest Town: Skykomish, WA
From Skykomish, take Highway 2 Eastbound for about 0.8 miles, turning left on Beckler River Road (NF-65). Continue 11 miles past the campground as the pavement ends and turns to gravel. At Jack Pass take the second left to stay on NF-65. At the second junction with NF-63 turn right and drive 2 miles, then continue right and down away from the Blanca Lake Trailhead, toward the North Fork Skykomish Trailhead at the end of the road.

Disclaimer
This hike traverses rugged terrain, remote wilderness areas, and potentially variable weather conditions. Before committing, please carefully evaluate your physical fitness, experience level, and preparedness.

I am not a guide. By choosing to participate, you acknowledge the inherent risks of backcountry travel and accept full responsibility for your safety and decisions. You expressly consent to release, hold harmless, and indemnify the event host from any and all claims, liabilities, damages, or expenses, including those arising from personal injury or property damage.