Corral Pass Campground

For those of us fortunate enough to call Washington State home, the vast expanses of the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest offer an abundance of natural wonders and secluded retreats. Among these, Corral Pass Campground stands as a true high-altitude gem, offering a rustic yet profoundly rewarding camping experience. Tucked away in a beautiful alpine setting, this campground is a perfect destination for local adventurers looking to escape the everyday and immerse themselves in the pristine wilderness of our state, with the added bonus of potential breathtaking views of Mount Rainier.

Corral Pass isn't your typical roadside campground; it's a destination that appeals to those who appreciate a more rugged, self-sufficient approach to camping and who are eager to explore the extensive trail systems that crisscross this stunning region. It’s a place where the air is crisp, the nights are starry, and the sounds of nature are your primary companions. This guide will take you through what makes Corral Pass Campground a unique and highly suitable spot for Washingtonians seeking an authentic outdoor experience.

From its challenging access to its unparalleled scenic beauty and access to some of the best hiking in the area, Corral Pass offers an unforgettable adventure for those willing to make the journey. It embodies the spirit of discovery and tranquility that many of us in Washington cherish in our natural landscapes.

Corral Pass Campground is located near Enumclaw, WA 98022, specifically along Forest Service Road 7174. Its address places it within the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, in close proximity to the Norse Peak Wilderness. This location is significant because it provides a gateway to a network of high-country trails and stunning alpine scenery.

Accessing Corral Pass Campground is an adventure in itself and requires careful planning. From Enumclaw, you'll travel east on State Route 410 for approximately 31 miles. Just after Milepost 56, you’ll turn left onto Forest Service Road 7174, often referred to as Corral Pass Road. It is crucial to note that this road is steep, narrow, and winding, and it is explicitly "not recommended for trailers or RVs." The road conditions can be very rough, particularly the last 6 miles, which are described as "VERY, VERY ROUGH!!" Good brakes are essential for the descent. While some have managed the drive in high-clearance vehicles like Subaru Crosstreks, it is best suited for experienced drivers in capable vehicles. The road may also be closed seasonally due to snow, typically from November through early summer, making the prime visiting months July through October. A Northwest Forest Pass is required for parking at the trailhead accessing the campground.

This challenging accessibility contributes to the campground's serene and less-crowded atmosphere, making it particularly appealing to those seeking solitude and a true wilderness experience away from the masses.

Corral Pass Campground provides a primitive camping experience, focusing on basic amenities that support self-sufficient outdoor recreation. This is not a developed campground with modern conveniences, but rather a place to connect directly with nature.

• Campsites: The campground offers individual campsites, each equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring. Reviews suggest there are roughly 20 sites spread across two loops. The sites are generally suitable for tents.
• Restrooms: Vault toilets are available at the campground. These are rustic facilities, but generally maintained. There are no showers.
• No Potable Water: It is important for visitors to know that there is no potable water source at Corral Pass Campground. Campers must bring all their own drinking water or be prepared to filter and treat water from natural sources if available (e.g., small streams, typically snowmelt, which may not be reliable late in the season).
• No Hookups or Dump Station: As a primitive campground, Corral Pass does not offer any electrical, water, or sewage hookups, nor is there a dump station. Campers must be fully self-contained.
• Bear Safety: While not explicitly stated for Corral Pass, standard wilderness regulations in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest require proper food storage to protect wildlife. Campers should be prepared to store all food and scented items in bear-resistant containers or hung from suitable trees.
• Permits: A Recreation Pass (such as the Northwest Forest Pass) is required to park at the trailhead that accesses the campground. There is no extra fee specifically for camping within the campground itself beyond the pass requirement.
• Campfire Restrictions: Campfires are permitted only in developed fire rings. It is always wise to check for current fire restrictions before visiting, especially during dry summer months. Using camping stoves for cooking is encouraged due to potential firewood scarcity.

The allure of Corral Pass Campground lies in its stunning natural features and the array of outdoor activities it facilitates.

• Alpine Setting and Views: The campground is nestled in a beautiful alpine environment. From the vicinity, campers can often enjoy spectacular panoramic views, including breathtaking vistas of Mount Rainier. The Rainier View Trail, accessible from the campground, offers particularly scenic overlooks of the mountain.
• Access to Norse Peak Wilderness: Corral Pass serves as a prime access point to the Norse Peak Wilderness. This opens up opportunities for extensive backpacking, hiking, and exploring a truly wild and protected landscape.
• Extensive Hiking Trails: Several hiking trails are available within walking distance of the campground. These include the Rainier View Trail (a popular, relatively easy hike with incredible views), the Greenwater Lakes Trail (accessing the Norse Peak Wilderness), and the Noble Knob Trail (also open to mountain bikes). These trails wind through subalpine timber and delightful meadows, offering diverse terrain and experiences.
• Wildflower Displays: During the peak summer months (typically July and August), the high meadow areas near Corral Pass are blanketed with a vibrant array of wildflowers, adding to the scenic beauty.
• Solitude and Tranquility: Due to its challenging access and primitive nature, Corral Pass offers a significant degree of solitude and a quiet atmosphere, perfect for those seeking to disconnect and enjoy nature's peace.
• Winter Recreation Potential: While the campground itself is typically only open in summer, the Forest Road 7174 to Corral Pass is a popular route for strenuous intermediate snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and even backcountry winter camping when snow levels permit.

Corral Pass Campground is managed by the U.S. Forest Service as part of the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest.

Address: NF-7174 (Corral Pass Road), Enumclaw, WA 98022, USA (Note: This is a general area address; the campground is off the forest road.)

Phone: For the most up-to-date information on road conditions, campground status, and any fire restrictions, it is best to contact the Snoqualmie Ranger District office in Enumclaw. Their general phone number is typically available on the official USDA Forest Service website for the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest.

For Washington State residents, Corral Pass Campground represents the quintessential high-country adventure. It's a testament to the rugged beauty that defines our Pacific Northwest landscape and an invitation for those seeking a deeper connection with nature. Unlike more developed and often crowded campgrounds, Corral Pass offers an unvarnished wilderness experience that prioritizes peace, self-reliance, and direct engagement with the environment.

The challenging drive up Forest Service Road 7174 acts as a natural filter, ensuring that those who reach the campground are truly dedicated to the outdoor experience, fostering a sense of shared adventure among campers. The reward for this effort is immense: unparalleled views of Mount Rainier, direct access to a vast network of hiking trails within the Norse Peak Wilderness, and the profound quiet of an alpine setting. For hikers, photographers, and anyone who appreciates raw natural beauty and a break from the digital world, Corral Pass is an ideal escape. It embodies the adventurous spirit that thrives in Washington, offering a truly memorable and refreshing experience that celebrates the wild heart of our state.

Corral Pass Campground

Enumclaw, WA 98022, USA