Neature
Peak · Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness

Horton Butte

29.1 mi round trip8,485 ft gainVery hardDay hike: Free self-issueOvernight: Free self-issue
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Permits and reservations

Day hikeFree self-issue
Fill out the free wilderness permit at the trailhead kiosk.
OvernightFree self-issue
No reservation. Use the same free permit, keep groups to 12 or fewer, and camp at least 200 ft from water.

Lake Chelan-Sawtooth Wilderness rules from the Forest Service. Matched from official wilderness boundaries. Always confirm with the land manager before you go.

About the trail

Distance29.1 miRound trip, out and back
Elevation gain8,485 ftTotal climb, round trip
Summit6,821 ftFrom elevation data

Overview

Horton Butte is a peak reached by a 29.1-mile round trip from Purple Creek Trailhead. The route follows Lakeshore Trail, then Lakeshore (Chelan) Trail, then Fish Creek Trail, then Horton Butte Trail, then Horton Butte Trail (not maintained) to the summit.

Heads up: the last stretch to the top is off trail.

Photos from hikers

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What you need

Parking and passes

National park trailheads here have no entrance fee. Check posted signs for any parking rules.

Getting there

The hike starts at Purple Creek Trailhead. Save directions offline before you leave, since mountain roads often lose cell service.

Conditions

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Full forecast at weather.gov