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An Early Spring Hike Awaits on the Palisades Trail

Snow might still pose a hindrance now, but wait a few weeks and consider trying this scenic hike.

The Palisades Trail (No. 1198) is one of the most interesting hikes between Enumclaw and Chinook Pass along State Route 410 though you might want to wait a few weeks before you try it. By late March the lower stretch of the trail should be snow-free and hikers willing to push the envelope can carry on further in snow if they are prepared.

The hike begins on the White River Trail (No. 1199) and in 0.1 miles reaches a junction with the Palisades Trail (left). The White River Trail (right) is a long, low-elevation trail that continues to the Corral Pass Road.  

The Palisades Trail begins in second-growth forest – later in March there may be a few signs of spring – such as early-blooming Indian plum with its dainty, white blossoms. Filling in the gaps between the trees is a pretty groundcover of salal, Oregon grape and moss. Later in spring you may also find Calypso orchids; violets, bleeding hearts, trilliums – sweetly-scented carpets of vanilla leaf will soon follow.  Calypso orchids are tiny, intricate flowers often springing from duff near Douglas firs and Western red cedar trees.  

Notice that roar? That’s Lower Dalles Falls – you’ll hear it before you see it.  In spring the 280-foot waterfall puts on quite a display from snowmelt. A short spur leads to the base of the waterfall for a closer view. Handsome old-growth trees begin to replace the second-growth forest – there are spectacular Western red cedars near the waterfall.

As the trail climbs more steeply it follows a delicately engineered route between Dalles Creek and cliffs  – watch for loose rocks. You’ll appreciate the staircase (with railing) built by the Boy Scouts of America – that pitch is steep enough to warrant it.

After the stairs you’ll cross Dalles Creek - look for a partial view of another waterfall below (some refer to this waterfall as Upper Dalles Creek Falls). After crossing the creek the trail re-enters forest and is level for an easy half-mile or so as it meanders through mossy forest. In spring look for more lowland woodland flowers, including vanilla leaf.

How far should you go? That depends on your level of experience and trail conditions. If the trail is still snow-covered or icy turn around when you feel uncomfortable. Experienced hikers can continue on the trail to a series of promontories above the Palisades (cliffs). The first promenade is at about 3,320 feet and should be snow-free by April. On a clear day enjoy views of the White River valley, the White River and Sun Top Mountain. Notice how a few gnarled snags lean out over the cliffs as if they too are enjoying the view.  

Any of the viewpoints make a dandy lunch spot or turnaround. If there is snow along airy stretches of the trail don’t venture too close to the edge as snow may have formed a cornice (an overhang) that won’t support your weight. Later in the season you can continue to the Ranger Creek Trail (No. 1197), 6.6 miles from the trailhead.

Come back in summer – then you can continue to a shelter at Ranger Creek where the Ranger Creek Trail comes in from State Route 410. Strong hikers can also make a long loop via the Ranger Creek Trail back to State Route 410 - to do so involves a short car shuttle between the Palisades Trail and Ranger Creek trailheads (see map for details).

Stats:  The hike is 7.4 miles round trip to the viewpoint (promontory) at 3,320 feet, elevation gain approximately 1,000 feet.   

Getting There: From Enumclaw drive east about 28 miles east from Enumclaw on State Route 410 and park on the left side of the highway (parking is limited), elevation (2,352 feet).  A Northwest Forest Pass is required.

For additional information, rules and regulations and/or current conditions*, contact the Snoqualmie Ranger District (Enumclaw) at 360-825-6585. As of February 14 the trail was open but had not been cleared; the trail is presently snow-covered but the snow should begin to melt soon. The map is Green Trails No. 238 (Greenwater). *You may be the first to hike the trail this year; if so, give the Snoqualmie Ranger District a call and tell them what kind of shape the trail is in.  

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