North Cascades National Park
Imus Creek Loop
easy FamiliesFerry ArrivalsLake Views
0.8 mi Distance
200 ft Elevation Gain
Varies Estimated Time
loop Trail Type
What to Expect
This bite-sized loop packs a surprising amount of reward into less than a mile. Starting near the Lake Chelan shoreline, the trail winds uphill through a mixed conifer forest — Douglas fir and ponderosa pine providing steady shade as you gain a modest couple hundred feet of elevation. The grade is gentle enough that you'll barely notice the climb until the trees thin out and Lake Chelan appears below you, that impossibly deep blue stretching toward Stehekin. The surrounding peaks of the North Cascades frame the view like a postcard you'd actually want to send. The trail loops down to Purple Point Campground before circling back, making navigation foolproof. This is the perfect leg-stretcher for anyone arriving by ferry to Stehekin, and families with young kids will find it just challenging enough to feel like an adventure without anyone melting down.
Trail Details
Distance 0.8 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain 200 ft
Difficulty easy
Estimated Time Varies
Trail Type loop
Pets Not allowed
Season Year-round
Trailhead Imus Creek Loop
Pro Tips
Trail Tip
Time this hike right after stepping off the Lady of the Lake ferry — it's an ideal way to shake off the boat legs and get oriented to the Stehekin Valley before heading deeper in.
Trail Tip
The viewpoints along the upper portion of the loop face south over Lake Chelan, so afternoon light gives you the best contrast between the dark water and surrounding ridgelines.
Trail Tip
Combine this with a walk to the Stehekin Pastry Company (about a mile down the road) for what might be the most civilized hiking-and-baked-goods combo in the entire national park system.
