Lewis Creek Trail

Overview

A true Cedar Grove workout, the Lewis Creek Trail is a steep, often hot climb that rewards persistence with quiet meadows, cool forest, and a backcountry feel. It’s most commonly done as an out-and-back to Frypan Meadow—about 11.9 miles total—with roughly 3,600 feet of gain. Expect a demanding ascent early, then a mellower grade through open subalpine forest and meadows with clear-running creeks.

What It’s Like

The first couple miles switchback through chaparral and bake in the afternoon—start early. Higher up, the trail transitions into open lodgepole/fir forest with intermittent creek crossings and pockets of meadow. Past the Hotel Creek junction the tread can get brushy and faint; beyond Kennedy Pass it grows harder to follow. This is a lightly used route after the first miles, which means more solitude—and more responsibility for your own navigation.

Route Notes (Out-and-Back to Frypan Meadow)

Plan on 11.9 miles total (out and back) to Frypan Meadow, the first legal camping area at roughly 5.5 miles in. It’s a natural turnaround for strong day hikers and a solid target for an overnight. Spring runoff can push some crossings to wading depth; timing and footwear matter. Bears are common here—practice strict food storage.

Conditions and Fire Impacts

Expect lingering fire effects. Portions of Lewis Creek were impacted by a recent burn footprint, with downed trees, damaged tread, and overhead snags—don’t linger under burned trees, especially in wind. In places, the path can be faint or briefly disappear; carry offline maps and a reliable compass/paper backup.

Permits and Access

Day hikers don’t need a wilderness permit. For overnights (e.g., camping at Frypan Meadow), a wilderness permit is required and issued for this area from the Road’s End Permit Station; during peak season (Memorial Day to mid-September) advance reservations are required. Highway access to Cedar Grove is seasonal—check road and trail conditions before you go.

Best Times to Hike

Start at dawn to beat the heat on the south-facing climb. Late spring through fall is typical, but spring brings deeper creek crossings; late summer and early fall usually offer lower water and cooler mornings. Weekdays are quieter. Light is best early on the ascent and again late afternoon in the forested upper sections.

Alternatives

If you want a shorter taste of the area, the Hotel Creek–Lewis Creek loop is a popular day option (roughly 7–8 miles). Most hikers go counter-clockwise: climb Hotel Creek to the Cedar Grove overlook and descend via Lewis Creek. Expect some fire-scarred sections and occasionally faint tread.

Should You Do It?

If you’re up for a strenuous, lightly traveled trail with a real backcountry feel and you’re comfortable with navigation, yes—this is a rewarding, underrated Cedar Grove climb. If you want big marquee views without the heat and route-finding, consider other area classics instead and save this one for a cooler day.