Taneum Creek Road
Eastern Cascades forest access loop
Forest Service Road 33 heads deep into the Wenatchee National Forest along Taneum Creek, connecting multiple wilderness access points and old logging roads in a 25-mile loop through classic Eastern Cascades terrain. The main route follows the creek drainage through ponderosa pine and Douglas fir forests, passing the Taneum Creek Campground around mile 8 before branching into a network of spur roads leading to trailheads for the Alpine Lakes Wilderness and Wenatchee Mountains.
Easy to moderate difficulty suitable for any high-clearance vehicle, though some spur roads require 4WD. The main road stays well-maintained but watch for logging trucks during weekdays. Open year-round at lower elevations, but snow closes upper sections November through May. No permits required for the road, though wilderness entry needs permits. Excellent dispersed camping throughout with creek access and established fire rings. Popular with hunters in fall, so expect company during hunting seasons.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Easy |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Scenic Drive |
| Surface | Gravel |
| Features | Camping, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 25 mi / 40.2 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 3600 ft |
| Best season | May-November |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 2WD |
| Nearest town | Cle Elum, WA |
| Land manager | US Forest Service |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
No recent condition reports. Be the first to post one.
Log in to post a condition report.
