Chilliwack River Trail

Chilliwack River Trail is a 17.3-mile one-way backcountry route from Hannegan Pass Trailhead to Bear Creek Camp. That distance includes the five-mile Hannegan Pass approach to Boundary Camp, where the Chilliwack River Trail proper begins. Allow about 11 to 12 hours of walking for the full line. Turning back to the same lot doubles the walk, so plan an overnight itinerary or a verified route out before starting.

The Hannegan approach climbs through silver fir and open avalanche clearings. Around Hannegan Pass, Ruth Mountain opens up across the skyline; the trail in the foreground gives the view scale. Past Boundary Camp, the route drops through old-growth forest about 2.5 miles to Copper Creek Camp, then continues through the river valley toward the Chilliwack crossing. The feel changes from open pass country to a long, shaded forest walk.

There is no bridge at the main river crossing. Ford only at low water; use the cable car otherwise. Water level can decide whether you continue, wait or turn around, so check the park's current river and trail conditions before setting out. Beyond the crossing, the trail passes the Brush Creek junction and later the Copper Ridge junction before reaching Bear Creek Camp. The maintained route ends there; the continuation north is abandoned.

Park at Hannegan Pass Trailhead on Hannegan Road (Forest Road 32). The trailhead has about 30 spaces, shoulder parking, a vault toilet and a shelter; a Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful pass is required. Pets are prohibited at Boundary Camp and beyond, and overnight stays in the national park require a backcountry permit. There are no food services on this wilderness route, so carry what you need.