Trail Overview
FS 1318 is a scenic and narrow single-track through the Wenatchee National Forest that is ideal for riders comfortable with side-hill exposure and switchbacks. The trail starts from the south end at the intersection with the Bear Creek Trail, and it starts gradually descending through scenic high-elevation forest and meadows on a narrow trail with some mild side-hill exposure. At this elevation, the dirt was noticeably more loamy, with more moisture and less dust, compared to the many surrounding dusty trails at lower elevation. After about a mile, it starts descending more steeply, through several tight switchbacks, with more exposure between the switchbacks as the trail is really narrow. Midway through, the trail starts climbing again, and gets really narrow as it goes past a scree field with a fantastic view of the mountains to the south. The last mile is a steep descent that gets looser and rockier and siltier, with several more tight switchbacks and exposure. There are lots of tennis ball-sized loose rocks piled in the trail during the final descent. Riders should also expect moderate rock and root obstacles. It ends on Forest Road 119, which connects to NFR 4110.
Difficulty
This is a more difficult trail due to a majority of the trail being narrow and exposed, with several tight switchbacks throughout the route. Riders should be skilled with tight maneuvers and moderate rock obstacles. The trail is physically demanding because it both descends and climbs back up several times.
