Company Creek Trail

Company Creek Trail is a steep, remote, one-way climb from the Stehekin Valley to Hilgard Pass: about 11 miles with 5,400 feet of gain to a high point around 6,600 feet. The mapped route ends at the pass. Allow most of a day for the climb; retracing the trail makes about 22 miles total, so plan the return or onward route before setting out.

The first two miles climb steeply through open forest toward Glacier Peak Wilderness. Views open over Stehekin Valley, then the Sable Ridge and glaciated Bonanza Peak view appears a few minutes beyond the boundary. Frame the peaks through the evergreens. Beyond this early viewpoint, the trail traverses a steep sidehill, rocky bluffs, and slide paths into thicker timber.

The trail reaches Company Creek at about mile five; the crossing can be hazardous during peak runoff. Beyond it, the route follows the creek to the basin head, then climbs steep switchbacks to Hilgard Pass. The pass has broad wilderness views and cross-country side-trip options. The tread is narrow and poorly maintained in places. Snow can make the pass dangerous; carry an ice axe if snow is possible.

Stehekin has no road connection to Chelan; reach it by passenger boat. From Stehekin, hike or ride about 4.5 miles up Stehekin Valley Road, cross the river, then follow Company Creek Road about a mile to the trailhead. Parking capacity is not documented. Flat camping spots near the creek have no facilities, and creek water must be treated. Pets are allowed in the Lake Chelan National Recreation Area on leash and on most surrounding national forest lands; follow Forest Service rules beyond the boundary.