High Bridge Campground

For Washington's adventurous spirits, those drawn to the pristine wilderness of the North Cascades and the unique charm of the remote Stehekin Valley, High Bridge Campground offers a vital and strategic basecamp. This isn't a destination for extended lounging, but rather a serviceable and comfortable stopover for those on a larger journey, a crucial stepping stone into some of our state's most magnificent backcountry. If you're planning a multi-day hike or simply need a reliable overnight spot in the heart of this stunning region, High Bridge Campground is designed to meet your needs.

While some campgrounds boast ultimate seclusion, High Bridge Campground's strength lies in its practicality and reliability. As one satisfied camper noted, it might not offer "much privacy or seclusion," but it is "serviceable enough to be comfortable to stay one night while passing through." This honest assessment highlights its role as a functional and well-maintained facility for hikers and backpackers navigating the Stehekin Valley and beyond. Its location at a significant trailhead makes it a hub for those venturing deeper into the National Park.

Beyond its utility, High Bridge Campground also offers unexpected delights, such as the surprisingly clean vault toilets and the assurance of level tent sites, making for a more comfortable night's rest. The proximity of a reliable water source and the crucial provision of a bear box are testaments to its thoughtful design for wilderness safety. And for those early risers, the "excellent view of Mt. McGregor" provides a spectacular backdrop to your morning coffee. From wildlife sightings to its role as a key access point for the Stehekin shuttle, High Bridge Campground serves as an indispensable part of the Washington backcountry experience. Let's delve into the details of what makes this campground a valuable asset for local adventurers.

High Bridge Campground is strategically located at Stehekin, WA 98852, USA. This places it deep within the North Cascades National Park Complex, at a pivotal point along the Stehekin Valley Road. It is situated about 11 miles up the valley from the Stehekin Landing, where the Lake Chelan ferries arrive. This location is significant as it marks the end of the line for the Stehekin shuttle bus service and serves as a major trailhead for numerous deeper wilderness routes, including sections of the Pacific Crest Trail. The campground itself is located just after crossing the High Bridge over the Stehekin River, signifying the transition from the Lake Chelan National Recreation Area into the official boundaries of North Cascades National Park. This makes it a critical waypoint for those embarking on longer backpacking trips into the more remote sections of the park.

Accessibility to High Bridge Campground is a unique and defining characteristic, as the entire Stehekin Valley is not reachable by conventional road from the rest of Washington State. The primary means of access involves a multi-stage journey:

• Ferry Service: Most visitors arrive via the Lady of the Lake ferry from Chelan, which traverses the length of Lake Chelan to the Stehekin Landing. This scenic boat ride can take between 2.5 to 4 hours depending on the ferry type.
• Stehekin Valley Road (Shuttle/Bike/Hike): From the Stehekin Landing, High Bridge Campground is approximately 11 miles up the Stehekin Valley Road. This section of the road is not open to private vehicles.
  • Shuttle Bus: The easiest and most common way to reach High Bridge from the Landing is via the Stehekin Valley Shuttle Bus, which operates regularly during peak season. This provides convenient transportation for hikers with heavy packs.
  • Biking: Visitors can also rent bikes in Stehekin and cycle the 11 miles to High Bridge. This is a popular option for those who enjoy combining cycling with their hiking adventures.
  • Hiking: For the truly ambitious, it is possible to hike the 11 miles along the Stehekin Valley Road from the Landing to the campground. This is often combined with longer backpacking routes.

High Bridge also serves as a critical access point for those hiking over Cascade Pass, as it's the eastern terminus of the 20.2-mile route from the Cascade Pass trailhead on Highway 20. Hikers completing this strenuous traverse often use High Bridge Campground as their first night's stop or a point to catch the shuttle back to the Landing. This multi-modal, remote accessibility emphasizes its role as a crucial junction for serious Washington outdoor enthusiasts.

High Bridge Campground, while described as "serviceable," offers key amenities essential for backpackers and campers passing through a remote wilderness area. Its services are designed for convenience and safety in a rugged environment.

• Picnic Tables: Each tent site typically includes a picnic table, providing a convenient and level surface for meal preparation and dining. This is a welcome amenity for weary hikers.
• Vault Toilets: The campground features vault toilets, which have been specifically noted by reviewers as "amazingly clean and honestly didn't stink!" This high standard of cleanliness for a wilderness facility is a significant benefit.
• Water Source: A "water source is fairly close" to the tent sites. This will be an untreated natural water source (like a stream or glacial melt) that requires filtration or purification before consumption. Campers must carry their own water treatment methods.
• Bear Box for Food Storage: A crucial safety feature in this bear country, a communal "bear box for food storage" is available. Reviewers highly recommend using it, citing personal experiences with bears approaching camp. This protects both human food and wildlife.
• Level Tent Sites: Campers appreciate that the "tent sites are all very level," making for a more comfortable night's sleep after a day of hiking.
• Shelter: One review mentions the presence of "a shelter," which can be a valuable communal space for cooking or gathering, especially during inclement weather.
• Proximity to Stehekin Shuttle Bus Stop: While not a direct service of the campground itself, its location at the end of the Stehekin shuttle bus line is a key amenity, offering convenient transportation for hikers to and from the Stehekin Landing area.

High Bridge Campground, though functional, boasts several compelling features and highlights that make it a notable stop for Washington's outdoor community:

• Strategic Trailhead Location: High Bridge marks the end of the Stehekin Valley Road accessible by shuttle and serves as the gateway to numerous deeper wilderness trails, including the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) and routes leading to Cascade Pass, Bridge Creek, and other remote areas. It's a critical hub for multi-day backpacking adventures.
• Excellent View of Mt. McGregor: Campers consistently highlight the "excellent view of Mt. McGregor" from the campground. This majestic mountain backdrop adds significant scenic value, particularly in the mornings or evenings.
• Wildlife Sightings: The natural setting provides opportunities for wildlife viewing. Reviewers mention sightings of "a couple deer including a very cute fawn," and even the need to "shoo away a black bear," underscoring the immersive wilderness experience.
• Unexpectedly Clean Facilities: The remarkably clean and odor-free vault toilets are a pleasant surprise for backcountry campers, enhancing the overall comfort of a stay in a remote setting.
• Historical Significance: The area around High Bridge has historical significance, with references to structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s, offering a glimpse into the region's past.
• Access to Stehekin's Unique Community: While not directly part of the campground, its location in Stehekin means campers have access to the unique amenities of this road-less community at the Landing, including a small store, bakery, and other services (accessed via shuttle).
• Designated Safe Food Storage: The provision of a bear box is a critical safety feature, giving campers peace of mind regarding food storage in active bear country.
• Ideal for Transitioning Hikers: It serves as a perfect "place to stay the night waiting for the bus to Stehikin," making it an efficient and convenient stopover for those coming out of the backcountry or preparing to head in.

As High Bridge Campground is a remote backcountry site located within the North Cascades National Park Complex in the unique, road-less community of Stehekin, there isn't a direct phone number specifically for the campground itself. All inquiries and essential planning must go through the managing authorities for the park and the Stehekin area.

Address: Stehekin, WA 98852, USA

For information regarding High Bridge Campground, including permits (which are required for backcountry camping in the North Cascades National Park Complex, though often obtained for routes further into the backcountry), current trail conditions, and Stehekin shuttle schedules, Washington locals should consult the following official sources:

• National Park Service (NPS) - North Cascades National Park Complex: This is the primary authority. Their official website is the best source for all information regarding backcountry permits, park regulations, and general conditions. You can also contact their Wilderness Information Center or a park ranger station.
• Golden West Visitor Center (Stehekin): This is the main NPS presence in Stehekin. They are the best resource for on-the-ground information about conditions, shuttle schedules, and any last-minute advisories. While there isn't a widely published direct number for High Bridge Campground, you can typically reach the Golden West Visitor Center at 360-854-7365 ext 14 (this number is often associated with camping inquiries in Stehekin).
• Stehekin Valley Adventures / Stehekin Shuttle: For shuttle bus schedules and information, which is crucial for accessing High Bridge from the Landing, you can often find details on the Stehekin Valley Adventures website or contact them.

It is highly recommended to call ahead or check official websites for the most current information, especially concerning weather, trail conditions, and shuttle operations, as these can vary seasonally in such a remote region.

For Washington locals, High Bridge Campground stands out as a uniquely suitable and highly valuable resource for several compelling reasons. Its strategic location at the nexus of the Stehekin Valley's accessible portion and the deeper North Cascades backcountry makes it an indispensable overnight stop for serious hikers and backpackers. While it may lack the extreme seclusion of more remote sites, its comfort and functionality are precisely what make it ideal for passing through, whether you're beginning an ambitious multi-day trek into the North Cascades or concluding one.

The surprising cleanliness of its facilities, the reliable water source, and the essential bear box all contribute to a more comfortable and safe wilderness experience, a welcome relief after a long day on the trails. The panoramic views of Mt. McGregor provide a constant reminder of the stunning natural beauty that defines our state, and the regular deer sightings, including fawns, offer delightful moments of connection with local wildlife. For Washingtonians, High Bridge Campground isn't just a place to pitch a tent; it's a critical component of exploring the magnificent, road-less Stehekin Valley. It allows us to access truly wild areas with a convenient and reliable base, making those epic Washington adventures more attainable and enjoyable. It serves as a perfect stepping stone for local outdoor enthusiasts eager to delve into the heart of the North Cascades.

High Bridge Campground

Stehekin, WA 98852, USA