Pasayten Wilderness

Within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, east of North Cascades National Park, lies Pasayten Wilderness, a 531,000-acre protected area. The area encompasses jagged peaks, glacial lakes, strong waterways, deep canyons, and rugged, remote terrain along the crest of the cascade mountains. Over 600 miles of trails pass through the wilderness, including the famous Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), which crosses the area for 32 miles. There is a likelihood of snowfall from October through May, and often the snow does not melt from the trails until the end of the summer or the beginning of the fall.

Among the trees that make up the forest are firs, cedars, western hemlocks, pines, and larches. In addition, according to the US Forest Service, the region is a vital habitat for deer, moose, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, the gray wolf and is home to the largest population of lynx in the lower 48. 

TRAIL ACCESS
Basin Creek Trail #360

Clutch Creek Trail #343

Deer Park Trail #341

Long Draw Trail #340

Middle Fork Trail #387

Pacific Crest Trail #2000

Smith Lake Trail #361
 

PERMITS
Wilderness permits are required for visitors and are available at ranger stations and via self issue at trailheads.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Methow Valley Ranger District -- 1-(509) 996-4003 

Tonasket Ranger District -- 1-(509) 486-2186

USFS: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/okawen/recarea/?recid=79431.