Deception Creek—Big trees, wilderness valley, no crowds—and that’s the truth!
Quick Facts:
Location: Skykomish River Valley
Land Agency: Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest
Roundtrip: 10.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,350 feet
Notes: Northwest Forest Pass required; Dogs permitted on leash.
Contact: Skykomish Ranger District: Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest
Green Trails Map: Alpine Lakes-Stevens Pass-No. 176S
Access: From Everett drive US 2 east to Skykomish. Then continue for another 8.0 miles turning right onto FR 6088 (just after Deception Falls). Follow FR 6088 for .4 mile to trailhead.
Good to know: kid-friendly, dog-friendly, wilderness rules apply, exceptional old-growth
A perfect hike for an overcast or warm day, venture up a deep valley cloaked in magnificent old-growth forest. One of the finest ancient forest hikes within the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, Deception Creek is also one of the quieter trails in that wilderness. Passed over by hikers preferring mountain summits and alpine lakes, this trail is perfect for those who enjoy solitude, quiet contemplation and big old trees—and of course a gorgeous cascading mountain creek as well!
The trail starts off easy and immediately enters magnificent old-growth forest. Not long afterwards reach an impressive bridge spanning Deception Creek; where big granite ledges granting captivating views of frothy rapids may tempt you to linger. The trail then pulls away from the creek traversing an amazing stand of giant cedars before climbing. After steeply gaining 1,000 feet, come to a crossing of Sawyer Creek.
Once beyond the crashing creek, continue on a more leisurely course. Nearly level and traversing more spectacular old growth the trail eventually reacquaints itself with Deception Creek. Continue past lush flats, coming upon a rocky chasm where Deception Creek tumbles into tiered pools and pothole basins. Farther along, transition to an avalanche-opened area providing views of surrounding slopes and peaks.
Resuming a mellow mood the trail traverses more lush flats complete with impressive primeval trees before reaching a junction at 5.2 miles. The trail right heads to Tonga Ridge; continue left for a few more hundred feet, calling it quits at the confluence of Deception and Fisher Creeks. Sunny gravel bars invite you to kickback and listen to soothing aquatic melodies before making the journey back to the trailhead.
However, if Fisher and Deception can safely be forded, and you’re feeling energetic, you may want to carry on farther up the valley for another 4.3 miles to the Deception Lakes; or 6.2 miles to Deception Pass.
For more detailed information on this hike and many others in the region, consult my Day Hiking Central Cascades 2nd edition (Mountaineers Books).
