Cutthroat Creek Trailhead

Cutthroat Creek Trailhead #483

Located off Highway 20 near Washington Pass, Cutthroat trail offers stunning views. The trail passes through a lush forest, crossing a bridge over Cutthroat Creek, leading to a serene lake nestled against high, rocky peaks. Popular for hiking, fishing, and viewing fall larches. Hikers can continue past the lake for another 1.9 miles (3.8 miles total from trailhead) to reach Cutthroat Pass for more expansive views. The trail progresses along an additional 2 mile before it intersects with the Pacific Crest Trail. The area is known for its biodiversity, with potential to see marmots and various bird species. 

• 48.556 N x 120.654 W
• 28 miles west on SR-20 from Winthrop, turn R on FS-400 : access sign on SR-20. FS-400 is semi-paved with car eating potholes, navigate with caution
• NW Forest pass or America the Beautiful pass or $5/day pass. Digital payment only through the recreation.gov mobile app. Please download before you arrive
• 4500’
• 3.8 miles round trip to Cutthroat Lake. 400’ elevation gain. Easy/ Moderate. Family friendly
• 5.5 miles one way to the PCT #2000 via Cutthroat Pass. 2300’ elevation gain. Difficult
• Approx May thru late October, depending on winter weather. Trail not accessible during winter when SR-20 is closed
• Info sign at trailhead
• 2 parking areas that fill quickly during the height of the season.
• No overnight camping in parking lots.
• Vault toilets, clean and smelling good. Small garbage for dog poop bags
• 1 picnic table
• No potable H2O
• Hike, Bike : no bikes beyond the pass on the PCT
• Horses
• Dogs leashed
• Primitive camping : no camping with in 1/4 of Cutthroat Lake
• Access to the Pacific Crest Trail #2000