This is a thigh-pumping, brake-burning type of ride that no sane person would attempt if it were not for the awe-inspiring views at the top. The trail is open to hikers, motos and horses. Forest
This is a thigh-pumping, brake-burning type of ride that no sane person would attempt if it were not for the awe-inspiring views at the top. The trail is open to hikers, motos and horses. Forest Service Trail 1583. Nason Ridge is an amazing epic ride that needs to be protected.
How to Find It
From Seattle
- Take Hwy 2 for approx. 80 miles
- Take a left on route #207 following signs to Lake Wenatchee/Fish Lake Recreation Area.
- Go 3.6 miles and turn left on Cedar Brae Road (follow the signs to Nason Creek Campground).
- At 4 miles Cedar Brae Road turns left (follow the signs to Kahler Glen).
- At 4.3 miles turn left following signs to Kahler Glen.
- At 4.5 miles bear right at the fork to the Kahler Glen Convention Center.
- At 4.6 miles, you will reach the Nason Ridge trailhead.
- Park on the right.
Typical Conditions
The first couple of miles can be chewed up and sandy. In summer the trail is dry and hot with plenty of mosquitoes; so make sure that you have plenty of water and bug spray for the journey and fill your belly with lots of carbos.
Local Points of Interest
After this ride, reward yourself with a burger and shake at the 59er Diner. If you need bike help, Das Rad Haus in Leavenworth is a great shop.
Advocacy & Stewardship
Nason Ridge is within the Nason Ridge roadless area that is a candidate for Wilderness designation.
Turn by Turn
From the trailhead, follow Nason Creek Trail #1583. After a short jaunt through the lakeside forest you will begin a grinding ascent. In 2 miles you will get glimpses of Lake Wenatchee and Fish Lake. At 2.1 miles, you reach an intersection. Take the first right following a small trail sign up an old logging road. At 3.2 miles you will top out and begin descending. Alas, the descent does not last and soon you begin climbing again. Switchback your way up to Round Mountain which you will reach at 6 miles. This is an admirable turn-around point. You can continue further to a saddle in 9 miles, but only if you are a true believer in finding pain in your gain. From Round Mountain, bear right to a series of thumping switchbacks. Ride all the way to the top of this ascent (at about 8.8 miles), catch your breath, take in the views, and eat a Power Bar. Turn around and get ready to test your brakes for an exciting descent back down to the car.
