Coming up to the Junction of Goat Lake & Chockwich Falls Trails
Coming up to the Junction of Goat Lake & Chockwich Falls Trails

Chocwich Falls Trail #647.2

The trail to Chockwich Falls begins on the old Penn Mining Co. road, that is now Upper Goat Lake – Elliott Creek Trail #647.  After about one mile you will see a sign pointing to the waterfall and Goat Lake.  It is just a short hike to the waterfall.

The trail is open for mountain biking to the waterfall and toward Goat Lake but only until you reach the Henry M. Jackson Wilderness boundary. Beyond the wilderness boundary the route, which follows Elliott Creek, is open only to foot traffic.

Late spring and early summer is a great time to hike to Chockwich Falls, with the melting snow, the water flow is heavier and can be quite spectacular.  Later in the season, when runoff decreases, the waterfall gracefully laces across the rocks amidst blooming wildflowers.

The total length of the trail is 2.5 miles. This takes the hiker past Chockwich Falls, and involves crossing Chockwich Creek, then fording the larger Bedal Creek.  Fording these creeks can be difficult during high runoff.  Just before reaching Bedal Creek there is a campsite.  Continuing past Bedal Creek puts you onto Forest Road #4096, Bedal Creek Road and the Bedal Creek Trailhead.  Continuing down the Bedal Creek Road, takes you to the Mountain Loop Highway.  So, it is possible to make this a loop trail by incorporating Goat Lake Road, Chockwich Falls Trail, Bedal Creek Road, and finally traveling the Mountain Loop Highway.

Views from Chockwich Falls Trail

Getting there:

From the Darrington Ranger Station, drive south on the Mountain Loop Highway, FSR #20, for 22 miles to Elliott Creek Road, FSR #4080, Turn left (east) and drive 0.8 miles to the trailhead.

History:

The Penn Mining Co. once operated in the Goat Lake region and as thus was the location of numerous mining claims..  Chockwhich was a mining camp for itinerant prospectors.

Type of trail: USFS
Length:
2.5 miles

Elevation: 1,880 – 2,700

Level of difficulty: easy – however uneven at trail tread

Best seasons: Summer & Fall

Wilderness restrictions: No

Northwest Trail Pass required

Restroom: Vault toilet at trailhead

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