The Icicle Gorge Upper Loop Trail is an alternative or extension to the very popular Icicle Gorge Trail. The upper loop sees very little traffic and is therefore a great choice for anyone looking to get away from the crowds that flock to the main gorge trail during any given summer weekend. While the upper loop is not nearly as scenic as the main gorge trail, and is even a bit overgrown in areas, it’s still a worthwhile hike.
There are several places where you can begin the Upper Loop, but to hike the entirety of it you’ll want to start from where it crosses Icicle Road, west of the main Icicle Gorge Trailhead.
From here the trail gains a bit of elevation. This is also the most overgrown portion of the trail. You’ll soon reach the point where the trail splits into the lollipop portion of this loop. Staying left will keep high until descending near the Chatter Creek Campground.
Cross the road then turn right onto the main Icicle Gorge Trail. You’ll immediately notice the wide and well trampled pathway looks noticeably different from the upper loop. You’ll also likely run into a few hikers.
Stay on the main trail until just before the trailhead. Turn right and cross the road. You’re now back on the upper loop.
Continue until you’ve finished the lollipop loop, then hike the familiar stem of the loop back to the road where you first began.
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