Trail Overview

Clearwater Mainline is a 5.2-mile out-and-back route open to street-legal vehicles. This single-lane gravel road travels through Washington DNR land, and a Discover Pass is required to recreate in the area. The route is generally easy, with occasional potholes and numerous spur roads that provide opportunities for further exploration. Early in the drive, the road passes several artificial beehives used for local beekeeping. Near the end of the route, the road climbs through a series of steep switchbacks where brush encroachment increases, the gravel becomes loose, and several deeper water bars require slower, more careful driving.

Photos of Clearwater Creek Mainline

Want to see more?
View All Photos

Difficulty

Clearwater Mainline is rated easy. Most of the route follows a well-maintained gravel road with only minor potholes. The final climb is more challenging, featuring loose gravel, deeper water bars, tighter brush, and a particularly steep, tight switchback that may require multi-point turns for longer vehicles. High-clearance vehicles should have little difficulty under normal conditions.

Technical Rating