Panther Creek Trail

Elevation : 3,251 ft

The Panther Creek side of the trail is not a trail for mountain views, but rather a wild and beautiful forest with many opportunities to admire the frothing blue waters of the creek rushing and tumbling toward Ruby Creek below. The brush is legendary along this section of trail, especially between the pass and Panther Camp, as it passes through several avalanche chutes. Stinging nettles are common, mixed among the gorgeous array of wildflowers, so long pants are recommended. The Panther Creek Trail often surprises hikers by its steep ascent and descent in the first few miles as it leaves SR 20 and climbs steeply to cross a high knob before dropping into the Panther Creek Valley. The steep gorge below does not allow for a trail to contour through this area, thus the longer and steeper route over the knob.

Drive SR 20 to mile 139, the East Bank Trailhead. Park here and walk east on SR 20 across the highway bridge over Panther Creek. It is a few minutes walk to the start of the Panther Creek Trail, and you can't see the trail until you are right upon it. Look for the sign. There is a wide shoulder on SR 20, but traffic moves quickly, so please be careful crossing the highway and walk single-file along the shoulder.