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