Esmeralda Basin is a 7-mile round-trip hike with 1,750 feet of elevation gain through wildflower meadows to Fortune Creek Pass. It shares a trailhead with Lake Ingalls at the end of the North Fork Teanaway Road north of Cle Elum, and dogs are allowed.
Quick facts
- Distance: 7.0 miles round trip
- Elevation gain: 1,750 feet
- High point: 5,960 feet
- Trailhead: Esmeralda Basin (Trail #1394), same lot as Lake Ingalls
- Pass: Northwest Forest Pass (opens in a new tab) or America the Beautiful pass
- Dogs: Allowed on leash
Why go
The basin is known for wildflowers, with more than 75 varieties blooming in the meadows and along the streams in summer.
From Fortune Creek Pass you can see Hawkins Mountain, Mount Daniel and Mount Hinman, and Mount Rainier from the south side of the pass. A side trip on Trail 1226 to a Lake Ann overlook adds about 2 miles and nearly 500 feet.
Our take: There are several different trail options and offshoots, so it’s easy to make it as long or short as you want.
Getting there
From I-90, take exit 85 to Highway 970, then Teanaway Road and the North Fork Teanaway Road. Continue on Forest Road 9737 and keep right for Trail 1394. It’s about 22.5 miles from the Highway 970 turnoff.
Before you go
- Bring a Northwest Forest Pass (opens in a new tab).
- Good dog alternative to Lake Ingalls, where dogs aren’t allowed.
- Always check to make sure the trails are open before you go.
- Packing list: our hiking gear checklist.
Common questions
How long is the Esmeralda Basin hike?
Esmeralda Basin is 7.0 miles round trip to Fortune Creek Pass, with 1,750 feet of elevation gain.
Are dogs allowed in Esmeralda Basin?
Yes, on leash. It’s a good pick if you want to hike near Lake Ingalls with a dog, since dogs aren’t allowed on the Ingalls trail past the first 0.4 mile.
When are the wildflowers best in Esmeralda Basin?
Summer. The meadows and streamsides fill with flowers, with more than 75 varieties in the basin.
Trail stats from Washington Trails Association (opens in a new tab). Last checked October 11, 2026.
More in this area: Lake Ingalls, Navaho Pass, the Teanaway area guide.
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