Rock Shelter Trail, Ross Lake National Recreation Area

There are days when you don't have time to concern yourself with hike planning and packing that backpack. Sometimes you just want a quick stretch because you have been riding in the car way too long. Rock Shelter Trail fits that need exactly.

Located off the Newhalem Creek Campground at milepost 120 on the North Cascades Highway, check out this amazing little hike with a fascinating history.

The trail starts 0.3 miles east along the service road past Newhalem Creek Campground loops C & D, 40 yards beyond the steel grated Newhalem Creek Bridge. Path is wheelchair accessible; 1,000 feet long with easy grades. Take the jaunt to the marked boardwalk and view an interpreted archaeological site carbon dated back to 1,400 years. Note the old hunting camp sheltered by a large boulder along side Newhalem Creek, or take a side trail 1,600 feet to an old growth cedar glade near Newhalem Creek. Just think, you are walking a similar path that the Upper Skagit tribal ancestors walked. The name "Newhalem" is actual a transcription of a Skagit term meaning "place to snare goats" This little trail is great for all ages, don't be deterred by the slight climb in the beginning, the rest of the hike is quite level.

Hike recommendation by Janice Boman, Seattle City Light