The Icicle Creek Trail (#1551) runs for 12 miles, from Icicle Creek Trailhead to just past Josephine Lake where it joins the Pacific Crest Trail. While the trail may provide ample opportunity for overnight use, it can also be enjoyed by day hikers. One such hike is the easy 3.2 mile out and back to the French Creek/Icicle Creek confluence.
You’ll begin from the Icicle Creek Trailhead, located at the end of the long (and occasionally bumpy) Icicle Road. Park here and fill out a free self-issue wilderness permit.
You’ll soon enter the Alpine Lakes Wilderness and find yourself walking through a beautiful, lush forest. Keep your eyes open for wildlife, as well as all the different types of flora found in the dense understory.
The forest begins to open a bit as you near the confluence. A short side path leads down to the water where French Creek joins, and Icicle Creek cascades a foot or two over what could be called a waterfall. A lovely pool at the base of this cascade makes for a perfect place to take a dip and cool off.
You can continue along the Icicle Creek Trail if you wish, but be aware that the bridge across French Creek is currently out (not a big deal during summer, but potentially impassable during late spring melt).
If you wish to overnight there is also some camping near the confluence. Otherwise, return the way you came back to the trailhead.
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