Near Carbon River Trail
A small creek a bit uphill off trail from the Carbon River Basin
Near Carbon River Trail
A creek near the Carbon River
Near Carbon River Trail
Boardwalk on the Rain Forest Trail near the Carbon River entrance. NPS photo by Emily Brouwer
Near Carbon River Trail
carbon trail - 2 miles in from trailhead - deer crossing
Near Carbon River Trail
A hiker looking out over Carbon River

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Driving Directions
Hike Trail

Carbon River Trail

2.8 (5 Ratings)
An old road turned trail leading to the Wonderland Trail along the banks of the Carbon River.
5.3
mi
Distance
690
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
BirdingLakeRiver/CreekViewsWildflowersWildlife

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
5.26mi
Distance
690ft
Elevation Gain
0ft
Elevation Loss
10%
Max Grade
2,457ft
High Point
1,766ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
The Carbon River Trail now begins at the Carbon River entrance at the northwest border of the park. This is due to flooding which altered the roadbed and closed the road to vehicles. Bikes are allowed on the portion of the trail on the old road bed, from the Carbon River Entrance to Ipsut Creek Campground. Bikes are not allowed on trails past the campground. Given that this trail follows an old roadbed, it's quite easy-going. The grade stays consistent at ~2%. After reaching Ipsut Creek Campground, the trail maintains a gentle uphill grade as it parallels the Carbon River. At 1.7 miles from the Ipsut Creek Campground, cross the Carbon River on a foot log bridge. Once across, continue upriver to reconnect with the Wonderland Trail at the Carbon River Suspension Bridge. Do not cross the suspension bridge, continue straight to the Carbon Glacier overlook.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Brian Smith