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East Bank Trail
Don't be fooled by the distance: the East Bank Trail can be a long, multi-day backpacking adventure or a short day hike.
Plan Around East Bank Trail
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Use this detail page to confirm that the stop is worth it, then carry that decision into a trip draft while the park context is still fresh.
East Bank Trail Details
Don’t be fooled by the distance; the East Bank Trail can be a long, multi-day backpacking adventure or a short day hike. This trail is divided between the eastern shore of Ross Lake and an isolated valley beyond Lightning Creek, and its low elevations, moderate grade, and access to longer side trails make it a relatively popular long-distance hike. The trail departs from a junction with historic Ruby Creek, and sets off through the dense forests on the east side of Ross Lake, slowly climbing to Hidden Hand Pass and the steep slopes of Little Jack Mountain, named for early gold prospector Jack Rowley. Skirting the mountain, the trail approaches the lakeshore, where it follows closely enough to provide expansive views down the length of the long, slender lake. The first backcountry campsites are 16 miles from the trailhead, at Lightning Creek, and are often where hikers turn off the East Bank Trail to climb the 6,102-foot Desolation Peak, or continue on to the best and last views of Ross Lake before the trail heads further east. The final 15 miles of the trail pass two pretty backcountry lakes and junctions with Pasayten Wilderness trails before it gradually descends to Hozomeen Campground, on the north end of Ross Lake. The trailhead is at milepost 138, near Ross Lake on State Route 20.
Difficulty
Low
Distance
63 miles
Estimated time
3 days
Region
N/A
Nearby Parks Around East Bank Trail
Compare nearby parks around East Bank Trail when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.
Nearby Points of Interest Around East Bank Trail
Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond East Bank Trail while the map context is still fresh.
0.2 mi away
Panther Creek Trail
The Panther Creek Trail is the less popular approach to Fourth of July Pass.
0.7 mi away
Ruby Creek
The Ruby Creek area of North Cascades is rich with both natural scenery and cultural history.
3.2 mi away
Ross Lake Overlook
Often overshadowed by the nearby Diablo Lake Overlook, Ross Lake Overlook offers extensive views of this narrow, 22-mile-long lake.
4.0 mi away
Ross Lake
The 24-mile-long Ross Lake is situated on the U.S.-Canadian border and is well known for it's recreational opportunities.
4.1 mi away
Ross Lake Campgrounds
The Ross Lake Campgrounds are only accessible by boat.
