My wife and I were on this trail this past weekend.
Compared to the Cady ridge trail it seems older, more rutted, more brushy (needs maintenance)...and I was wondering if the existence of this trail pre-dates the Cady ridge trail and perhaps fell into neglect when the Cady Ridge trail was created? I got the sense that this trail was an older way to get to the PCT (via Cady Pass).
I don't know the answer, but I do know sheep were grazed in the high meadows above tree line as recently as the 1960's (and I think into the 80's [at least over in Foam Basin]).
I believe you'll find that either in Whitfield's 1926, "History of Snohomish County" or in the 1906 "Illustrated History of Snohomish and Skagit Counties". Not sure which, but I believe it's in the 1926 book. It speaks of people from the City of Snohomish looking for a route over the Cascades before the Stevens Pass route was located.
It said something to the fact that it was an old trade route used by Native Americans who would trade with tribes on the east side.
You bet Pula. If you really need it, I have it here, but it's up in my office. I can look it up later for you, or you can find those volumes at the Everett Library if you're in that area.
It said something to the fact that it was an old trade route used by Native Americans who would trade with tribes on the east side.
Cady Creek trail in particular, or routes in general? I suppose they had to get up and over somehow; Cady Creek goes up quickly; as does Li'l Wenatchee. The now-named Sauk-Suiattle tribe families inter-married with tribes from the east and travel back and forth was done routinely, not only familial, but berries and other food and trade, as you say.
Those books would be in most libraries in Snohomish County, but in the reference section only. Not for check out. However, I've noticed both listed on abebooks.com from time to time for sale. The 1906 publication is also re-printed as "on Demand" for anywhere from $35 up to ???
It's shown in this 1885-1915 survey & nothing on Cady Ridge
That trail was in pretty good shape up until the Index-Galena road washed out. In the 90's I helped on a Boy Scout project replacing some of the bridges.
I've long wondered why the railroad chose Stevens Pass over this route.
I've long wondered why the railroad chose Stevens Pass over this route.
Looks like a straight shot until it gets to Troublesome Mtn. Then the train would have to make a sharp turn. Maybe that's why it's called Troublesome Mtn. (I'm just making stuff up; I have no idea what goes into selecting a route).
Thanks for the map, Randy; Now I know why I get tingly when on Pass Creek; it's an old route!
It's shown in this 1885-1915 survey & nothing on Cady Ridge
That trail was in pretty good shape up until the Index-Galena road washed out. In the 90's I helped on a Boy Scout project replacing some of the bridges.
I've long wondered why the railroad chose Stevens Pass over this route.
Ah, so the ridge trail is newer, like I thought it might be.
The creek trail is quite brushy. This Sunday (6/17/2021) there were a few places where there was no way to avoid the Devils club. Ouch!
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