If you’ve spent any time in the Leavenworth area, you’ve probably heard of Icicle Gorge. This gentle loop trail navigates both banks of the Icicle River, allowing hikers to experience the magic of the Icicle Valley without making massive elevation gains. Come see why this fantastic nature trail is so popular.

The Icicle Gorge Trail is one of the most popular trails in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest.

Sydney Rait / alltrails.com Located about 18 miles outside of Leavenworth, it stays pretty packed during the warmer months, so plan an early morning hike or prepare to share the trail with others.

The loop trail is about 4.2 miles in length, but it’s still considered an easy, family friendly hike.

Brian Jolly / alltrails.com The trail is open as long as it’s accessible, but it’s most popular between May and early October.

After you find the Icicle Gorge View River Loop sign, you’ll turn left to start the four mile loop in a clockwise direction or turn right to do it in a counterclockwise direction.

Rory DuFault / alltrails.com Soon, you’ll cross a bridge over Icicle Creek. Make sure you stop on the bridge if you can and take in the views.

The trail continues along the creek before winding through a more heavily forested area.

Yuwi S / alltrails.com You might see some interpretive signs along the way that describe the plants in the area, like devil’s club.

Continue over bridges for Trout Creek and Jack Creek, admiring the views each time. You’ll even see a waterfall.

Rory Dufault / alltrails.com When you reach a junction with Road 615, bear right to stay on Icicle Gorge Trail.

The native name for Icicle Creek was Nasikelt.

Julia Heliker / alltrails.com When Nasikelt is pronounced correctly, it sounds a lot like “icicle.” Rumor has it that some of the early pioneers mistook the proper native name and called it Icicle.

The Icicle Gorge Trail is a must-see for nature lovers.

Michele Granera / alltrails.com If nothing else, we can all use the peace and quiet a creek-filled hike such as this provides.

Have you ever hiked Icicle Gorge?

Sydney Rait / alltrails.com

Located about 18 miles outside of Leavenworth, it stays pretty packed during the warmer months, so plan an early morning hike or prepare to share the trail with others.

Brian Jolly / alltrails.com

The trail is open as long as it’s accessible, but it’s most popular between May and early October.

Rory DuFault / alltrails.com

Soon, you’ll cross a bridge over Icicle Creek. Make sure you stop on the bridge if you can and take in the views.

Yuwi S / alltrails.com

You might see some interpretive signs along the way that describe the plants in the area, like devil’s club.

Rory Dufault / alltrails.com

When you reach a junction with Road 615, bear right to stay on Icicle Gorge Trail.

Julia Heliker / alltrails.com

When Nasikelt is pronounced correctly, it sounds a lot like “icicle.” Rumor has it that some of the early pioneers mistook the proper native name and called it Icicle.

Michele Granera / alltrails.com

If nothing else, we can all use the peace and quiet a creek-filled hike such as this provides.

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Address: Icicle Gorge Trailhead, Leavenworth, WA 98826, USA