- Region
- WA, USA
- Country
- United States
- Best for
- hiking
- Best season
- Spring, Summer
- Permits
- A valid Recreation Pass is required at Sum…
- Managed by
- U.S. Forest Service, Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, Snoqualmie Ranger District
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Clearwater Wilderness trip tools
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Photos of Clearwater Wilderness
How to get there
Clearwater Wilderness lies southeast of Tacoma in northeastern Pierce County, along the northern side of Mount Rainier National Park. The Fairfax Bridge closure currently makes the wilderness largely inaccessible; access is available via Celery Meadows. Confirm approach conditions with the Snoqualmie Ranger District before traveling. Summit Lake Trailhead is the usual listed entry for Summit Lake Trail and connections to the Carbon, Bearhead, and Clearwater trails, but its listing does not establish current reachability.
- Celery Meadows
Currently identified as an available approach while the Fairfax Bridge closure limits access to most of the wilderness. Confirm approach details and conditions with the Snoqualmie Ranger District.
- Summit Lake Trailhead
Provides access to Summit Lake Trail 1177 and connections with Carbon and Bearhead Trails 1179 / 1179.1 and Clearwater Trail 1178. A valid Recreation Pass is required. Confirm reachability given the Fairfax Bridge closure.
Sources: fs.usda.gov · University of Montana / federal agency partners · Wilderness Connect / federal wilderness boundary inventory · Wikipedia. Confirm road and trailhead conditions with the managing agency before you leave.
WA, USA · United States
- Hunting
- Climbing
- Mountaineering
- Winter Camping
- Skiing
- Hiking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Backpacking
Forest, headwaters, and Mount Rainier views
Clearwater Wilderness protects 14,647 acres in Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, southeast of Tacoma in northeastern Pierce County. Designated in 1984, it borders Mount Rainier National Park to the south and centers on the Clearwater River and its forested headwaters. Bearhead Mountain, at 6,089 feet, is the wilderness high point. Old-growth Douglas fir, western red cedar, and western hemlock cover the ridges, with ferns and mosses beneath them. Small lakes lie scattered through the forest, but many lack trails and are difficult to reach. Summit Lake and Bearhead Mountain are the most popular destinations, with views toward the north side of Mount Rainier. Expect a mix of enclosed forest walking and more open lake or mountain scenery rather than continuous views. Thick understory makes cross-country travel difficult; established trails are the practical starting point for most trips.
Access limitations and trail choices
Access is the first planning constraint: Clearwater Wilderness is currently largely inaccessible because of the Fairfax Bridge closure, with access available via Celery Meadows. Confirm the approach with the Snoqualmie Ranger District before setting out; the usual trail network should not be mistaken for confirmation that its trailheads are reachable. Summit Lake Trailhead normally provides entry to Summit Lake Trail 1177 and connections with the Carbon, Bearhead, and Clearwater trails. Summit Lake Trail gradually climbs through forest for 2.5 miles to the lake. Clearwater Trail travels 8.1 miles, descending east to the Clearwater River before crossing Lily Creek and climbing toward a small lake and the western wilderness boundary. Carbon Trail bends south for 9.4 miles to meet Summit Lake Trail. These are distinct outings with different terrain demands. Summit Lake can draw quite a few visitors, especially on weekends.
Snow, wildlife, and wilderness care
Ninety percent of annual precipitation falls between October and May, and high elevations can hold as much as 25 feet of snow, often lingering until late July. Plan higher trips around actual snow conditions rather than the calendar alone, and carry layers and rain protection for this wet mountain setting. Wildflowers bloom in July and August around Bearhead Mountain, Celery Meadows, and Summit Lake, though lingering snow can affect travel. Bears, deer, elk, marmots, and pikas inhabit the area; dense vegetation can make wildlife hard to see. Give animals space and keep food secure. Wilderness regulations apply throughout. Campfires are prohibited within Summit Lake Basin, except for self-contained, carry-in devices such as stoves. A valid Recreation Pass is required at Summit Lake Trailhead. Some trails are closed to stock; confirm the intended route before planning a stock trip.
Where on earth
Satellite imagery flying in from a world view to Clearwater Wilderness, United States. Use the + / − buttons, or click the map to zoom with your scroll wheel; drag to pan and pinch to zoom on touch.
Coordinates
- Decimal degrees
- 47.0398, -121.8201
- Latitude (DMS)
- 47° 2′ 23.2″ N
- Longitude (DMS)
- 121° 49′ 12.4″ W
Coordinates are an access-point reference for Clearwater Wilderness, not a route. Carry a paper map and confirm trailhead or put-in access with the managing agency before you go.
Topic summary
The Clearwater Wilderness is the northwestern outpost of a wilderness complex centered on Mt. Rainier National Park which includes the adjacent Norse Peak, William O. Douglas, Tatoosh, and Glacier View...
Key takeaways
- Region: WA, USA
- Country: United States
- Good for: hiking
- Coordinates: 47.040, -121.820
Intended uses
hiking
Keep planning
Popular pursuits at Clearwater Wilderness
- Hunting
Seasons, tags, and the units that hold animals.
- Climbing
Rock and alpine lines with approach beta.
- Mountaineering
Glacier and high-route objectives with real consequence.
- Winter Camping
Cold-season travel and camp craft; layering matters more than mileage.
- Skiing
Ski-touring access when the road closes for the season.
- Hiking
Day miles on marked trail, with route notes and trail links below.
Animals around Clearwater Wilderness
Forest, headwaters, and Mount Rainier views
Clearwater Wilderness protects 14,647 acres in Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, southeast of Tacoma in northeastern Pierce County. Designated in 1984, it borders Mount Rainier National Park to the south and centers on the Clearwater River and its forested headwaters. Bearhead Mountain, at 6,089 feet, is the wilderness high point. Old-growth Douglas fir, western red cedar, and western hemlock cover the ridges, with ferns and mosses beneath them. Small lakes lie scattered through the forest, but many lack trails and are difficult to reach. Summit Lake and Bearhead Mountain are the most popular destinations, with views toward the north side of Mount Rainier. Expect a mix of enclosed forest walking and more open lake or mountain scenery rather than continuous views. Thick understory makes cross-country travel difficult; established trails are the practical starting point for most trips.
Access limitations and trail choices
Access is the first planning constraint: Clearwater Wilderness is currently largely inaccessible because of the Fairfax Bridge closure, with access available via Celery Meadows. Confirm the approach with the Snoqualmie Ranger District before setting out; the usual trail network should not be mistaken for confirmation that its trailheads are reachable. Summit Lake Trailhead normally provides entry to Summit Lake Trail 1177 and connections with the Carbon, Bearhead, and Clearwater trails. Summit Lake Trail gradually climbs through forest for 2.5 miles to the lake. Clearwater Trail travels 8.1 miles, descending east to the Clearwater River before crossing Lily Creek and climbing toward a small lake and the western wilderness boundary. Carbon Trail bends south for 9.4 miles to meet Summit Lake Trail. These are distinct outings with different terrain demands. Summit Lake can draw quite a few visitors, especially on weekends.
Snow, wildlife, and wilderness care
Ninety percent of annual precipitation falls between October and May, and high elevations can hold as much as 25 feet of snow, often lingering until late July. Plan higher trips around actual snow conditions rather than the calendar alone, and carry layers and rain protection for this wet mountain setting. Wildflowers bloom in July and August around Bearhead Mountain, Celery Meadows, and Summit Lake, though lingering snow can affect travel. Bears, deer, elk, marmots, and pikas inhabit the area; dense vegetation can make wildlife hard to see. Give animals space and keep food secure. Wilderness regulations apply throughout. Campfires are prohibited within Summit Lake Basin, except for self-contained, carry-in devices such as stoves. A valid Recreation Pass is required at Summit Lake Trailhead. Some trails are closed to stock; confirm the intended route before planning a stock trip.
Route options
- Summit Lake Trail 11772.5 miles to the lake
Gradually ascends through forest to Summit Lake, a popular destination with Mount Rainier views. Expect company on weekends. Campfires are prohibited in Summit Lake Basin, except for self-contained, carry-in devices such as stoves. Confirm trailhead access before committing to the trip.
- Clearwater Trail 11788.1 miles
Descends east to the Clearwater River, crosses Lily Creek, then climbs to a small lake and continues to the western wilderness boundary. Confirm current access before planning this route.
- Carbon Trail9.4 miles
Shares a trailhead with Clearwater Trail and follows a long southward bend to join Summit Lake Trail. Confirm access and trail conditions before relying on this connection.
- Clearwater–Carbon loop17 miles
The Clearwater and Carbon trails form a wilderness loop connecting with Summit Lake Trail. Plan around the river descent and subsequent climbing described for Clearwater Trail, and verify that the intended approach is accessible.
Sample itineraries
- Summit Lake day hike · 1 day
Once trailhead access is confirmed, follow Summit Lake Trail 1177 through old-growth forest, gradually climbing 2.5 miles to the lake. Return the same way. Expect company on weekends. The Fairfax Bridge closure currently limits access; do not assume Summit Lake Trailhead is reachable.
- Clearwater–Carbon backpacking loop · 2 days
Consider the 17-mile Clearwater–Carbon loop only after confirming access and trail conditions. The route connects with Summit Lake Trail and includes the Clearwater River, Lily Creek crossing, forest and a small lake. Confirm overnight camping rules and suitable camping locations before departure; current bridge restrictions complicate access.
Seasonal conditions
Spring
Spring, within the October–May wet period
Ninety percent of annual precipitation falls between October and May. Deep mountain snow and wet forest conditions make spring a poor time to assume high trails are accessible. Check snow coverage and access before choosing a route.
Summer
Summer; wildflowers in July and August
High-elevation snow can linger until late July. Wildflowers bloom around Bearhead Mountain, Celery Meadows and Summit Lake in July and August. Plan around actual snow conditions rather than the calendar; popular destinations can be busy on weekends.
Fall
Fall; wet period begins in October
October marks the beginning of the period receiving most annual precipitation. Carry rain protection and insulating layers, and allow extra time on wet trails. Confirm access before traveling, particularly while the Fairfax Bridge closure affects the wilderness.
Winter
Winter, within the October–May wet period
Stormy winters bring abundant rain and snow. Snow accumulation can reach 25 feet at high elevations. Treat winter travel as a snow-country undertaking rather than an ordinary forest hike, and verify conditions and access with the ranger district.
| Season | Window | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Spring, within the October–May wet period | Ninety percent of annual precipitation falls between October and May. Deep mountain snow and wet forest conditions make spring a poor time to assume high trails are accessible. Check snow coverage and access before choosing a route. |
| Summer | Summer; wildflowers in July and August | High-elevation snow can linger until late July. Wildflowers bloom around Bearhead Mountain, Celery Meadows and Summit Lake in July and August. Plan around actual snow conditions rather than the calendar; popular destinations can be busy on weekends. |
| Fall | Fall; wet period begins in October | October marks the beginning of the period receiving most annual precipitation. Carry rain protection and insulating layers, and allow extra time on wet trails. Confirm access before traveling, particularly while the Fairfax Bridge closure affects the wilderness. |
| Winter | Winter, within the October–May wet period | Stormy winters bring abundant rain and snow. Snow accumulation can reach 25 feet at high elevations. Treat winter travel as a snow-country undertaking rather than an ordinary forest hike, and verify conditions and access with the ranger district. |
Permits, fees & closures
A valid Recreation Pass is required at Summit Lake Trailhead. Wilderness regulations apply throughout Clearwater Wilderness. Confirm any additional trip-specific requirements with the Snoqualmie Ranger District.
Official source: Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest | Clearwater Wilderness · Verified October 19, 2026
Hazards & regulations
- The Fairfax Bridge closure currently leaves Clearwater Wilderness largely inaccessible. Access may be possible via Celery Meadows; confirm the approach with the Snoqualmie Ranger District before departure.
- Deep snow can linger at high elevations until late July, obscuring trails and complicating navigation.
- Abundant rain and stormy winter weather require protection against prolonged wet and cold conditions.
- Dense understory, including devil's club, makes cross-country travel difficult. Many remote lakes lack trails and straightforward access.
- Clearwater Trail crosses Lily Creek. Assess water conditions before crossing and turn back if the crossing is unsafe.
- Bears and cougars inhabit the wilderness. Keep wildlife at a distance and secure food and scented items.
What to pack for Clearwater Wilderness
- Waterproof jacket and rain pants
- Insulating layers
- Dry spare clothing in waterproof storage
- Footwear suited to wet trails
- Topographic maps covering Old Baldy Mountain, Bearhead Mountain and Clear West Peak
- Compass and offline navigation
- Headlamp
- First-aid kit
- Water treatment
- Weather-resistant shelter
- Sleeping bag and insulated sleeping pad
- Self-contained carry-in stove
- Secure food storage
- Waste pack-out supplies
Clearwater Wilderness FAQ
- Can Clearwater Wilderness currently be reached?
- The Fairfax Bridge closure leaves much of the wilderness inaccessible. Celery Meadows is identified as a possible current approach. Confirm road and trail access with the Snoqualmie Ranger District at (425) 888-1421 before setting out.
- Where is Clearwater Wilderness?
- It lies in Washington's Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, southeast of Tacoma in northeastern Pierce County. Its southern boundary borders Mount Rainier National Park. The wilderness protects old-growth forest, Clearwater River headwaters and small mountain lakes.
- What are the main hiking destinations?
- Summit Lake and Bearhead Mountain are the most popular destinations, with views of Mount Rainier. Bearhead Mountain is the wilderness's highest point at 6,089 feet. Access restrictions currently complicate trips to these locations.
- Are campfires allowed at Summit Lake?
- Campfires are prohibited within Summit Lake Basin. Self-contained, carry-in devices such as stoves are excepted. Check current fire restrictions before traveling.
- Can horses travel throughout the wilderness?
- Some trails are closed to stock because of steep grades, inadequate design, lack of grazing or other factors. Grazing, hitching, tethering or hobbling stock within 200 feet of a lake shore is prohibited. Confirm which trails allow stock before planning a trip.
- When is a summer hiking trip most practical?
- Plan around snowmelt: high-elevation snow can remain until late July. July and August bring wildflowers, but neither the season nor clear weather guarantees access. Confirm snow conditions and the status of approaches before committing to a route.