Driveway Butte Trail 481

Access: From Winthrop drive State Route 20 west about 18.5 miles to Klipchuck Campground. Near the self-service fee station there is a gated service road. (Please do not park in front of the gate). The trail begins about 100 yards down this road and is marked by green "trees."

Route Description: The beginning of the trail follows an old skid road uphill for the first half mile then becomes more of a trail as it heads up towards a small pass. The trail enters timber then emerges into open meadows below the butte.

Highlights: The trip to the top can be dry in the middle of the summer season, but the views are well worth the work. Silver Star and the Early Winters area are among the many views from the summit, which was once a lookout tower site. The trail does not receive much use except by hunters in the fall. Horse users should be aware that there are no unloading facilities at the trailhead.

Specific Hazards/Difficulties: Both USGS and Green Trails maps show a trail leading down the north side of Driveway Butte to the Methow River Trail. This was part of the old Pasayten sheep driveway and was abandoned many years ago. The trail is difficult to follow and non-existent in places.

Length: 4-miles/6.7 km.

Season: Late June - October.

Maps: USGS: Silver, Star Mtn., Robinson Mtn.
             Green Trails: Washington Pass.

Restrictions:

Trailhead Facilities: Northwest Forest Pass required. Vault toilets and campsites are available at Klipchuck Campground.