Mad River (Lower) #1409

A long, forested singletrack trail through sage and ponderosa pine that opens onto sunny hillsides a dips into shaded groves. The trail winds along the Mad River, offering views of the canyon and the remnants of the 1994 Tyee Creek Fire. A popular mountain biking destination, this trail is also a great hike for spring wildflowers.

Elevation: Pine Flats:1,800 feet; Maverick Saddle: 4,400 feet.

A Northwest Trails Pass is needed to park at the trailhead ($5 day pass or $30 annual pass). A pass can be purchased at a self-service station near the entrance to the campground.

From Wenatchee, WA, travel north on US-97A (west side of Columbia River) for 14.4 miles to Entiat, WA. Just after the bridge turn left onto Entiat River Road (County Road #19) and travel north 9.5 miles to the community of Ardenvoir, WA. Go beyond the general store and turn left on Mad River Road / Forest Road 5700 and travel 4 miles to Pine Flats Campground where the Lower Mad River Trailhead begins.

From Chelan, WA, travel south on US-97A (west side of Columbia River) for 19.3 miles to Entiat, WA. Just before the bridge turn right onto Entiat River Road (County Road #19) and travel north 9.5 miles to the community of Ardenvoir, WA. Go beyond the general store and turn left on Mad River Road / Forest Road 5700 and travel 4 miles to Pine Flats Campground where the Lower Mad River Trailhead begins.

Access Info

Follow Highway 97 to Entiat, then take the Entiat Valley Road 10.5 to just beyond Ardenvoir where you'll turn left onto Mad River Road No. 5700. About 2 miles from the turn, you'll reach a fork in the road. Continue straight on Road 5700--the other option forks left across a bridge and onto a gravel road. Continue on 5700 until you reach Pine Flat Campground in another 2 miles. Reach the Lower Mad River Trailhead from the Pine Flat Campground.