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Location

Cascade Meadows is located 13 miles east of the summit of Stevens Pass om Hwy 2, two and a half miles down White Pine Creek Road. From the lodge to the south rise the peaks of the Chiwaukum Mountains. The camp is just a mile from the White Pine trial head, gateway to the northern most parts of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Area, which is filled with dozens of hanging valleys, sweeping meadows, and mountain lakes. The seclusion of the wilderness area spills into the valley and is only disturbed by the occasional train.

Nason Creek

Nason Creek winds in and out of the camp's northern boundary. In the Spring it rages with melted snow, pushing hard against it's banks. In the summer, seen above, it offers a refreshing break from the summer heat. Humming birds skim its surfaces early in the morning. Harlequin ducks paddle by with their broods searching for aquatic insects. In Autumn, migrating Chinook salmon congregate and nest along its gravelly shoals. It mirrors the leaves in late September and October, intensifying the spectacular colors of the season.

Nearby Trails

Creek Side Trail leads away west from the meadow taking venturesome travelers toward the seep ponds. The trail is maintained as an easy walking trail and a great place to enjoy interesting natural wonders such as this Coral Fungi. Other species of fungi abound in the fall, such as bracket fungi, Chanterelles, bird's nest fungi and many others.

Old Growth Timber

Following Creek Side trail at the southern edge of the seep ponds, don't pass by the log bridge leading to the small islet called "Beaver Island". Protected from forest fire for centuries and nourished by the slow seepage of water from nearby Nason Creek, many magnificent Douglas Firs and Western Cedars flourish. Our camp manager found this wonderful cedar last October. Over 6 feet in diameter, the tree is easily four hundred years old. The cedar could have been a fine healthy young tree long before the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock.

Sylvan Marshes

Stomping through brush and crossing fallen logs while leaving beaver island you will notice marshes filled with diverse water fowl. Solitary Blue Herons stilt across the waters. American Diving birds pop up and down the surface. Nuthatchers peck along the bark of the trees. It is a great spot to reflect and meditate on life.

Cleared Timber Area

Leaving the Marshes and walking back toward camp on White Pine Creek Road Along the south lies a forest recovery area. Photographed by many sightseers in the fall, the recovery area furnishes a feast for the eyes. Other trails within the 65 acres that make up Cascade Meadows, such as the deep woods or the avalanche area will test your skills of balance and direction.