Teanaway Ridge Road 4×4
Alpine mining road to the Stuart Range views
This forgotten mining road climbs through old-growth forest before breaking into alpine meadows with views of Mount Stuart’s granite face. The route follows an old USFS road past Beverly Creek’s abandoned homestead ruins, then tackles the notorious Longs Pass switchbacks where the trail narrows to barely truck-width with thousand-foot dropoffs. Highlights include the ruins of the Fortune Creek Mine and panoramic views from Teanaway Ridge proper.
Rated moderate to difficult due to rocky sections and seasonal creek crossings that can run knee-deep in snowmelt season. Stock high-clearance 4WD handles it, but skid plates recommended for the boulder fields past Beverly Creek. Best accessed May through October when snow clears. No permits required, but bring recovery gear and extra fuel — nearest gas is 40 miles back in Cle Elum. Multiple dispersed camping spots along the ridge make this a perfect weekend basecamp for exploring the greater Teanaway backcountry.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Dirt, Mixed, Rock |
| Features | Camping, High Altitude, Historic, Remote, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 18 mi / 29 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 6800 ft |
| Best season | May-October |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock 4WD high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Cle Elum, Washington |
| Land manager | Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock 4Runner or Tacoma handle Teanaway Ridge Road without modifications?
Yes, a stock 4WD high-clearance vehicle like a 4Runner or Tacoma can complete this trail. You'll want decent all-terrain tires and low-range for the rocky climbs — a lifted rig makes it more comfortable but isn't required.
When does Teanaway Ridge Road typically open after winter, and is snow a concern?
The trail is generally accessible May through October, but upper elevations near 6,800 ft can hold snow well into June. Check with Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest or recent trip reports before heading out early season.
Do I need a permit or pass to run Teanaway Ridge Road?
A Northwest Forest Pass is required for parking at the trailhead. No additional permit is needed to drive the route itself. Day-use fee is $5, or grab an annual pass for $30 — available online or at Cle Elum ranger district.
What's the hardest section of the trail and what makes it technical?
The upper ridge climb is the crux — loose rock, off-camber shelf road, and a few exposed ledge moves with limited recovery room. It's moderate overall, but that section demands attention and confident throttle control, not just slow crawling.
Are the water crossings on Teanaway Ridge Road passable, and is there reliable water for camping?
The creek crossings are typically wheel-deep and manageable from late June onward, but early season snowmelt can push them higher — scout before committing. Dispersed camping is available along the route and water sources exist, but filter everything; you're upstream of grazing allotments.
Trail track
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