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American Ridge

A challenging 19.4 mile loop with 4,700 feet of elevation gain. Expect a rough trail and a few river fords, but earn dramatic 360 degree views, golden larches in October, and an excellent chance to see and hear elk.

getting there

Mesatchee Creek Trailhead

Drive SR-410 to the Mesatchee Creek Trailhead, 6.2 miles east of Chinook Pass and 5.2 miles west of the Pleasant Valley Campground.

Pleasant Valley Loop Trailhead

Drive SR-410 to the Pleasant Valley Loop Trailhead, 8.7 miles east of Chinook Pass and 2.7 miles west of the Pleasant Valley Campground (just west of the bridge over the American River).

on the trail

suggested itinerary

Day 1: Hike East on the Pleasant Valley Loop Trail for 2.7 miles bearing right at the junction with the  Kettle Creek Trail.  At about 6.5 miles from the trailhead, cross Kettle Creek and find pleasant camps (4,950 ft). It's 6.5 miles, 1,787 feet of elevation gain, and 256 feet of elevation loss.

Day 2: From Kettle Creek Camp, continue 1.5 miles to the junction with American Ridge Trail. Turn right and follow the ridge for a glorious day of views and up and down ridge walking. Routing finding skills may be necessary as the trail comes and goes.  Look for cairns and tree blazes for guidance. There are several excellent camps on the ridge. At 11.5 miles from the trailhead reach the crest of American Ridge (6,900 ft). The true summit is a short side trail away at 6946' awaits with dramatic views in all directions. Continue on the trail to mile 15 cross Mesatchee Creek and good camps. It's 8.5 miles,  2,853 feet of elevation gain, and 2,957 feet of elevation loss.

Day 3: From the Mesatchee Creek camp, continue down the creek, passing a beautiful waterfall in 1.7 miles. At 2.3 miles from camp, intersect the Dewey Lakes Trail, turn right and soon ford the American River (or be lucky enough to find a log to cross). The trail continues over Morse Creek on a bridge and then on a few old roads to the Mesatchee Creek Trailhead. It's 4.2 miles, 91 feet of elevation gain, and 1,276 feet of elevation loss.

  • Suitable Activities: Backpacking
  • Seasons: Year-round, July, August, September, October
  • Weather: View weather forecast
  • Difficulty: Moderate/Strenuous
  • Length: 19.4 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 4,700 ft
  • 6,900 ft
Map
  • Green Trails Bumping Lake No. 271
Activities
Trip Reports
Titles

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  • American Ridge and Dewey Lakes
  • American Ridge and Goat Peak
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