This is a great out-and back ride through mostly forested terrain. The outbound trip climbs a net of only 1,200 ft., but the descent on the return trip makes for a fun return. Despite the na
This is a great out-and back ride through mostly forested terrain. The outbound trip climbs a net of only 1,200 ft., but the descent on the return trip makes for a fun return. Despite the name, the trail is always some distance from the river. There are several stream crossings. Abundant camping and hiking opportunities are found along the Twisp River Road.
The tread is generally dry and firm. Most of the trail has a smooth tread with periodic short rocky sections, including several scree slopes. The trail is snow free by early to mid-May, however depending on the winter, tree fall may be substantial. The trail is usually cut out by mid June. Be careful at stream crossings during May and into June due to high runoff from snowmelt.
How to Find It
From Twisp turn west onto the Twisp River Road and stay on it for about 10.5 miles to West Buttermilk Road. Turn left onto W. Buttermilk Road and follow the signs to the Twisp River Trailhead / Buttermilk SnowPark (about 1.5 miles). Park here and look for the Twisp River Trail at the west end of the parking lot.
Typical Conditions
The tread is generally dry and firm. Most of the trail has a smooth tread with periodic short rocky sections, including several scree slopes.
The trail is snow free by early to mid-May, however depending on the winter, tree fall may be substantial. The trail is usually cut out by mid June.
Be careful at stream crossings during May and into June due to high runoff from snowmelt,
Advocacy & Stewardship
Okanogan National Forest, Methow Ranger District. The trail is cleared of blowdown annually by the Methow Valley Backcountry Horsemen, usually by mid-June.
Turn by Turn
The entire route follows USFS Trail #440, the Twisp River Trail. Use Green Trails Maps 83 (Buttermilk Butte) and 82 (Stehekin) for this ride. The route is also mapped on Amazing Map Right Map West Methow Trails (Series MV-1).
The trail starts on an old skid road, but turns right onto single track within 1/4 mile. For the first 3.5 miles, you are on the south side of the Twisp River. Near mile 3 the trail uses a gravel road to cross the river, and then continues on the northside of the river for the remainder of the ride. Your best (only?) view of the river will be on this bridge!
Cross the Twisp River Road (paved) and look for the trail to continue just east of the road intersections.
A number of hiking trails cross the Twisp River Trail, at each of these crossings, be careful to continue west on Trail 440 versus turning onto one of the other trails.
