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Downey Creek


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Downey Creek

Enjoy a relatively gentle grade following Downey Creek into the Glacier Peak Wilderness.

Enjoy a relatively gentle grade following Downey Creek into the
Glacier Peak Wilderness. Several steep creek crossings can be
challenging during high water. Big trees and occasional views of
surrounding peaks & Downey Creek are features of this route. Find
camping spots at about mile 3 and at the end of the trail at
Bachelor Creek, mile 6.6, where it connects with the Ptarmigan
Traverse route. The Downey Creek trail is the southern end of the
cross-country mountaineering route called the Ptarmigan Traverse. 
Trail registry & vault toilet available at TH.

 A valid Recreation Pass is required at Downey Creek Trailhead.

Washington Trails Association Hiking Guide
https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/downey-creek

getting there

From the Darrington Ranger District drive north eight miles to the Suiattle River Road 26. Follow this road east 20 miles to the Downey Creek Trailhead. The trail is just past the Downey Creek Bridge on the left (north) side of the road. Trail parking is on your right (south) side of the road.

Photograph by Roseanne Lorenzana, 8-5-2025. Downey Creek trail entering the Glacier Peak Wilderness.

  • Difficulty: Moderate/Strenuous
  • Length: 13.2 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 1,280 ft
  • 2,400 ft
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  • Downey Creek Trail 768
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