McCarthy Creek

Despite being easily accessible from McCarthy, this route promises rugged hiking and solitude. McCarthy Creek has washed out the route in some places and conditions vary so be prepared to turn back early. Start your hike in McCarthy by walking down the main road through town. Take a left at the end of the road on a trail towards the river and cross the bridge. Follow the gravel road on the opposite bank until the top of the first switchback, where the trail splits off. About three miles into the hike, the river has washed out the route. You can walk up and over the slump that parallels the creek to avoid crossing McCarthy Creek here. However, the trail ends between an old cabin and the place where the original route used to cross the river. Most hikers will turn around here, but it may be possible to continue depending on conditions. If the river is very low it is possible to cross. However, it can be extremely dangerous to attempt a crossing at high water, so assess the conditions and err on the side of caution when making your decision. About 300 yards further along, you'll have to cross back before coming to a tunnel. This is an original tunnel remaining from the mining era, and the trail will lead you through it. This is an out-and-back hike (5 miles each way) so return the same way you came. If you are planning a multi-day hiking trip in the McCarthy Creek drainage, be aware that there are private landholdings in this area.