Greenwater River Road
Old-growth timber and mining history
Forest Service Road 70 follows the Greenwater River through some of the Cascades’ most pristine old-growth forest, past abandoned mining claims and logging camps from the early 1900s. The route starts near the Crystal Mountain ski area and winds 18 miles through dense timber, crossing multiple creek tributaries before reaching the Green River drainage. You’ll pass the old Greenwater mining district ruins around mile 12, where rusted equipment still sits scattered in the clearings.
This is moderate difficulty with several rocky creek crossings that can run deep during spring snowmelt. Stock 4WD with decent ground clearance handles it fine, though the creek crossings demand attention. Best tackled July through October when water levels drop. No permits needed, plenty of dispersed camping along the river, and you’ll likely see deer, elk, and black bear. The payoff is genuine Cascade solitude and some of the best fishing holes in Washington.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | High Clearance |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Remote, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 18 mi / 29 km |
| Duration | 1 day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 4100 ft |
| Best season | July-October |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock 4WD high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Enumclaw, WA |
| Land manager | US Forest Service |
| 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 Tacoma handle Greenwater River Road?
Yes, any stock 4WD with decent ground clearance will do fine. The trail is rated moderate but doesn't require any modifications.
Is the trail passable in spring or early summer?
Best to wait until July - snow blocks higher elevations and creek crossings can be sketchy with snowmelt runoff. October is your cutoff before winter closure.
Do I need a permit or pass for Greenwater River Road?
You'll need a valid Discovery Pass for Washington state lands ($10 day pass or $30 annual). No special permits required beyond that.
What's the gnarliest part of this trail?
The creek crossings can get tricky during high water, and there are some rocky sections with loose surfaces near the old mining areas. Nothing too technical but stay alert.
Are there good dispersed camping spots along the route?
Plenty of established sites along the river, especially in the first 10 miles. Most have fire rings already built and decent access to water from Greenwater River.