Denny Creek Trail #1014

Dogs Unknown

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Lake · River/Creek · Swimming · Views · Waterfall · Wildflowers · Wildlife

After crossing the creek, the trail starts a moderate ascent toward Hemlock Pass, passing a few waterfalls along the way. The route is steep as you alternate between talus and forest.

In the summer, you are likely to find wildflowers blooming in this section. Hemlock Pass tops out at 4,600 feet. The final stretch is a gentle descent to Melakwa Lake. Make your way around the left side of the lake to get to Upper Melakwa Lake.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can scramble up to the pass, though there is no maintained trail. It is a gentle climb up the talus slope to the obvious pass nestled between Chair and Kaleetan Peak. The views toward Snow Lake are phenomenal. Side note: Melakwa is Chinook for mosquito, so it's advisable to be prepared to encounter the pest along the way.