Thirtymile Trailhead

For Washingtonians with a passion for true wilderness and a desire to escape the beaten path, Thirtymile Trailhead offers more than just a starting point for hikes; it provides a unique, rustic camping experience deep within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. Located near Loomis, this destination is for those who embrace self-sufficiency and the profound peace found only in remote natural settings. It’s a place where the journey is as much a part of the adventure as the destination itself, offering unparalleled access to the vast and majestic Pasayten Wilderness.

This article is designed to be a comprehensive guide for Washington locals considering a trip to Thirtymile Trailhead. We will cover its specific location and the often adventurous accessibility, detail the essential (and surprisingly well-maintained) services it offers, and highlight the unique features that make it a compelling choice for intrepid campers. We’ll also provide crucial contact information and conclude by explaining why this remote trailhead campground is ideally suited for those of us in Washington who seek an authentic, unadulterated connection with our state's wild landscapes. Our aim is to provide factual, helpful information in a friendly yet professional tone, emphasizing the distinct charm of this rugged local gem.

Thirtymile Trailhead is located at Loomis, WA 98827, USA, deep within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest in north-central Washington. Its name reflects its approximate distance from a more populated area (often Winthrop) along the Chewuch River valley. This is a truly remote location, and access requires careful planning. From Winthrop, visitors typically drive north on Okanogan County Road 1213 (West Chewuch Road) which transitions into Forest Service Road 51, continuing for approximately 29 miles to reach the trailhead.

Accessibility to Thirtymile Trailhead can be a significant part of the adventure. Previous reviews have noted instances of road closures and washouts, sometimes requiring several miles of walking to reach the trailhead and campground. However, a review from July 2023 indicated that these specific road closures and washouts did not exist at that time, and the road was drivable. It is imperative for Washington locals to check the most current road conditions with the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest before attempting to drive to the trailhead, especially during shoulder seasons or after heavy rains. Forest Service roads can be unpaved, narrow, and winding, sometimes unsuitable for large RVs or trailers. While the road may be challenging, it ensures a degree of solitude once you arrive. Parking is available at the trailhead, though it may be limited, and sometimes a Northwest Forest Pass ($5/vehicle/day) is required, purchasable from a self-pay station at the trailhead. The journey through the scenic Chewuch River valley sets the stage for the raw beauty awaiting campers.

Given its remote, wilderness setting, Thirtymile Trailhead offers basic but essential services, geared towards self-sufficient campers and hikers. It's not a developed campground with extensive amenities, but what it does offer is often well-maintained:

• Campsites: Designated camping areas are available near the trailhead, primarily suitable for tents. These are often dispersed, primitive sites that allow campers to immerse themselves in the forest environment.

• Pit Toilets: Thirtymile Trailhead is notable for its vault or pit toilet facilities. Customer reviews highly praise their cleanliness, with one saying, "Woof. Great campground, immaculate bathroom. How often can you say that about a pit toilet? However, to get there..." and another even declaring, "Worth going for the pit toilet alone." This indicates exceptional maintenance for a typically basic wilderness amenity.

• Picnic Tables: Some picnic tables are typically available at the site, providing a convenient surface for meal preparation and dining.

• Fire Rings: Fire rings are often present at campsites for campfires (always check for current fire restrictions, which are common in Washington, especially during dry periods). Visitors should also be aware of the Thirtymile Fire Memorial in the vicinity, underscoring the importance of fire safety.

• No Potable Water: It is crucial for campers to be aware that potable (drinking) water is not available directly at Thirtymile Trailhead. Campers must bring their own sufficient supply of water for their entire stay or be prepared to filter/treat water from natural sources like the Chewuch River.

• Wilderness Permits: For those venturing beyond the immediate trailhead into the Pasayten Wilderness, free, self-issue wilderness permits are required and available at the trailhead.

• Horse/Pack Animal Facilities: For equestrian enthusiasts, the trailhead provides facilities such as a stock ramp and hitch rails, indicating its suitability for pack animals.

• No Trash Cans: Adhering to Leave No Trace principles, visitors are expected to pack out all garbage they generate.

The features and highlights of Thirtymile Trailhead are directly tied to its remote location and its role as a gateway to extensive wilderness:

• Gateway to Pasayten Wilderness: This is a primary draw. The trailhead provides direct access to the vast Pasayten Wilderness, offering endless opportunities for multi-day backpacking trips into truly untamed country.

• Chewuch River Trail Access: The campground is the starting point for the Chewuch River Trail (#510), which follows the river for 18 gentle miles. This trail is noted for its beauty, particularly with aspens in autumn, and passes through areas impacted by the Thirtymile Fire, offering a unique perspective on forest recovery. Chewuch Falls is also accessible along this trail.

• Remarkably Clean Pit Toilets: As highlighted in customer reviews, the cleanliness of the pit toilets is a standout feature, making a rustic camping experience significantly more comfortable.

• Thirtymile Fire Memorial: Located just short of the trailhead, the ThirtyMile Fire Memorial serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating 2001 wildfire and honors the four firefighters who perished. This memorial adds a significant historical and reflective element to the area.

• True Wilderness Solitude: Due to the challenging access, Thirtymile Trailhead experiences lighter usage compared to more accessible campgrounds. This offers campers a profound sense of peace, quiet, and solitude, far removed from urban noise and light pollution, ideal for stargazing.

• Wildlife Viewing and Scenic Beauty: Situated in a rich natural habitat, the area provides opportunities for observing diverse wildlife and enjoying the rugged, mountainous landscapes of the North Cascades.

• Post-Fire Ecology: The trail passes through a burn zone, offering a unique chance to observe forest regeneration and the resilience of nature in the aftermath of a major wildfire, providing an educational aspect to the trip.

For information and inquiries regarding Thirtymile Trailhead and surrounding wilderness, you should contact the managing authority, the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest:

Address: Thirtymile Trailhead, Loomis, WA 98827, USA (located within Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest)

Phone: While a specific phone number for the trailhead campground isn't typically provided, you should contact the Methow Valley Ranger District, which manages this area of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest.

Methow Valley Ranger District: (509) 996-4000

It is highly recommended that Washington locals call this number or visit the official Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest website before planning their trip. This will provide the most current information on:

• Road conditions and any closures (especially relevant given past reports).

• Current fire danger status and any fire restrictions.

• Wilderness permit requirements and regulations.

• Trail conditions, including reports of blowdown (as mentioned in a 2018 review).

• Any fees for recreation passes.

Planning ahead is crucial for a safe and enjoyable wilderness experience at Thirtymile Trailhead.

For Washington locals, Thirtymile Trailhead is not just a campground; it’s an invitation to a profound wilderness adventure. Its remote location near Loomis, accessible via scenic forest roads, makes it an ideal choice for those truly seeking to unplug and immerse themselves in the raw beauty of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest and the Pasayten Wilderness. The highly praised cleanliness of its pit toilets, a detail that speaks volumes about its upkeep, enhances the rustic experience.

This destination is perfectly suited for Washingtonians who embrace self-reliance, enjoy challenging but rewarding access, and prioritize an authentic connection with nature. It serves as a prime launching point for extensive hiking and backpacking along the Chewuch River Trail, offering opportunities for solitude, wildlife observation, and reflection at the Thirtymile Fire Memorial. For those who value the untouched majesty of their home state's wild places, Thirtymile Trailhead offers an unforgettable experience, promising adventure and tranquility far from the clamor of everyday life. It truly embodies the spirit of Washington's vast and spectacular outdoors.