Trip Report
Basic Backpacking Field Trip - Ross Dam & Big Beaver Creek
This was an easy to moderate 8-mile hike with minimal elevation gain, crossing the Ross Dam and continuing along a scenic trail featuring several waterfalls and bridge crossings. The route led us to the shore of Big Beaver, where we set up camp and spent the night. The trail offered a peaceful and picturesque experience, ideal for a first backpacking trip.
Marco Capo
- Sat, May 17, 2025 — Sun, May 18, 2025
- Basic Backpacking Field Trip - Ross Dam & Big Beaver Creek
- Ross Dam & Big Beaver Creek
- Backpacking
- Successful
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- Road suitable for all vehicles
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The trail was in good condition overall, with clear signage and well-maintained paths. The route begins with a notable elevation drop before crossing Ross Dam, followed by a series of moderate ups and downs that add up to a total elevation gain of approximately 800 feet. While generally easy, a few sections of the trail are narrow and run alongside steep drop-offs, requiring attention and sure footing.
Despite forecasts predicting rain, the weather turned out better than expected. We experienced only light drizzle and overcast skies, with occasional views of rainfall in the surrounding mountain peaks. The trail itself was free of snow and safe to hike, though early-season hikers should still stay updated on weather conditions.
Bridges allowed for secure crossings over several flowing creeks and waterfalls, which were running steadily provably due to snowmelt in higher elevations. Water was readily available from multiple sources along the route, particularly near the waterfalls and Big Beaver Creek—but all water must be treated before drinking.
Our trip began early in the morning at 8:00 AM, with a stop in Marblemount to pick up our camping permits for the Big Beaver Campsite at the North Cascades National Park Wilderness Information Center. The process was quick and easy, and from there we continued driving for about 45 minutes to reach the Ross Dam Trailhead.
The view from Ross Dam was absolutely breathtaking—looking out over the bright turquoise waters of Ross Lake framed by snow-dusted peaks. That sight alone is worth the trip, even if you don't continue beyond the dam.
The trail started off gently, with very mild elevation changes rather than a steep descent. It was a steady and comfortable walk, and after a short while, we reached a junction where the trail splits off toward the Ross Lake Resort, a cluster of charming floating cabins—a perfect spot to keep in mind for future family getaways.
Around noon, we took a break for lunch near Green Point Lookout, where we had panoramic views of the surrounding forest and lake. From there, the trail continued with some rolling terrain and scenic bridge crossings over streams and waterfalls, all energized by the spring snowmelt.
We reached the shore of Big Beaver in the afternoon and found the Big Beaver Campsite in excellent condition. The site was well-maintained, featuring fire pits, picnic tables, two pit toilets, and five or six bear boxes for safe food storage. We set up our tents, made some hot tea, and relaxed under the tarp before heading back about half a mile to a small waterfall to filter and refill our water supply.
After returning to camp, we made dinner, shared some stories, and settled in for the night. The full hike in, including all breaks and the water refill trip, took us just under 5 hours.
The next morning, we woke up around 8:00 AM, made breakfast, packed up, and began our return hike at approximately 9:30 AM. We arrived back at the trailhead around 2:30 PM, wrapping up a rewarding overnight trip with plenty of memories and great views.
This trip offered roughly 16 miles round trip, with a total elevation gain of around 800 feet. Despite forecasts predicting rain, we experienced only light drizzle and cloudy skies, with visible rainfall in the distant mountain peaks. Weather-wise, it turned out better than expected.