Clearwater Wilderness

Clearwater Wilderness is a 14,615-acre federally designated Wilderness Area in Washington, managed by the Forest Service. It protects primitive backcountry where no roads, motors, or mechanized travel are permitted—visitors must travel on foot or horseback only. The landscape is rugged and undeveloped, offering backcountry hikers and backpackers genuine solitude and escape from developed recreation areas.

Visiting means committing to Leave No Trace ethics: pack out what you pack in, camp on durable surfaces away from water, and travel quietly through the landscape. Access is typically via trailheads on the wilderness boundary; check with the managing Forest Service office for current conditions, permit requirements, and recommended entry points. Snow at elevation can linger into early summer and return by fall, so timing your visit during the dry season—roughly June through September—offers the most reliable access and comfortable travel.