Trail Overview
Burch Mountain is a 17-mile out-and-back route located within the Chelan Wildlife Area and restricted to street-legal vehicles, beginning at a gated entrance with no posted closure dates. A Discover Pass is required for access. The road features significant washboarding early on and climbs steeply, becoming loose in sections as it ascends to over 4,400 feet, then levels off and continues gradually to approximately 4,800 feet. The upper portions of the route are more rutted, with numerous spur roads branching off along the way. The trail follows a high ridgeline with expansive views of the Cascades before ending at a small turnaround, where visitors can stop and hike the remaining 1/8 mile to the summit. Burch Mountain Road is subject to seasonal closure from mid-February through March 31, and open fires are prohibited.
Difficulty
Burch Mountain is suitable for most 2WD and high-clearance vehicles, though the steep climb and loose surface can make travel more challenging in sections. The primary challenges include significant washboarding in the lower portions and loose, uneven terrain during the ascent, which may require careful throttle control. The upper sections exhibit rutting, which can create uneven conditions. Weather conditions, such as rain, can increase difficulty, particularly when the surface becomes slick. Due to the long descent, it is recommended to use a lower gear to avoid overheated brakes. As with most trails in the area, bringing a chainsaw or equipment to clear fallen trees is recommended.
