Thunder Creek, Fourth of July and Panther Creek Trails

The Thunder Creek Trail begins in ancient forests and takes hikers on a sojourn into the heart of the North Cascades National Park. Winding through a low-elevation valley filled with lush old-growth cedar, hemlock and fir trees, the trail follows the cloudy-blue, glacier-fed creek from its lower, forested reaches to its origins high on the heather-covered slopes of Park Creek Pass. Look for deer and other animal tracks in the sandy soil and mud. The total length of the Thunder Creek Trail, from the trailhead to Park Creek Pass is 19.6 miles. However, many options for shorter trips exist along the way.

For those looking for a short hike, the trail crosses Thunder Creek on a large wooden bridge about 1.5 miles from the trailhead. Thunder Camp lies just on the other side of the bridge and is a wonderful destination for families or for an easy-going introduction to backpacking. Many day hikers also enjoy bird watching from the bridge or exploring the nearby gravel bars.

Hikers looking for a longer or more strenuous option can continue on the Thunder Creek Trail, or turn off on the Fourth of July Trail. The trail to Fourth of July Camp switchbacks upward through forested slopes occasionally crossing the creek. Fourth of July Camp offers splendid views across the valley toward Snowfield and Colonial Peaks, the Neve Glacier and more peaks to the south. Spend the night here and continue further towards Fourth of July Pass the next day, or use it as a picnic or turn-around point on a day hike.

If you have a second car, you can make this a loop trip by continuing over the pass and down the Panther Creek drainage. This trail follows the course of Panther Creek as it tumbles through lush, green forest. Look for woodland flowers and ferns. The distance between the Thunder Creek and Panther Creek trailheads is 11.5 miles.

Directions: Follow State Route 20 to Diablo Lake. Enter the south side of Colonial Creek Campground at milepost 130. Park in the large lot above the boat ramp. Stock parties should access this trail via the trailhead that lies uphill from the parking lot behind the trailer dump station. This is the preferred trailhead for horses. Hikers and backpackers should walk the length of the campground, following the signs to the amphitheater, where the main trail begins.

Permit Information: A backcountry permit is required for all overnight stays. Permits are limited. There are numerous campsites along this trail, at most five miles apart. For more information visit the North Cascades National Park?s website or call the North Cascades National Park Visitor Center at 206 386-4495 ext.11.