Lizard Lake/Longworth Cr.

Trail Overview

This is an alternate route from Stampede Pass Road on the other side of the valley. The route comprises Lizard Lake, Borup, and Longworth Creek Forest Service roads. It is a single-lane gravel road in good shape, with potholes, ruts, and minor rocky areas. The road passes a few viewpoints with good valley views and one nice view of Mt. Rainier. At the South end, the road passes close to a high railroad trestle over the Green River with one pullout offering a good view and camp spot. A short nearby spur road offers railroad crews access to the line--do not trespass on the tracks. At the North end, the road edges along the bank of picturesque Lizard Lake, offering lake views and access. This end is very close to the Pacific Crest Trail crossing of Stampede Pass Road. There are two dispersed camping areas on the lake and another nearby. Other Forest Service roads branch off from this route, offering several other thru-routes to explore. There is little to no cell service up in the mountains. This route is closed by snow in winter, likely until mid-July.

Photos of Lizard Lake/Longworth Cr.

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Difficulty

Road in good condition with minor rutting, some exposed rock less than 12" high, and moderate small to medium potholes along the route.

History

This area is steeped in railroad history as the route of the former Northern Pacific, the second transcontinental railway to be built across the US. The 2-mile Stampede Pass rail tunnel replaced arduous switchbacks across the pass. The former town of Lester was an important railway town whose last resident died in 2002 at the age of 99. Lester is only accessible by a 2-mile hike into the Green River watershed, but nothing remains as all buildings were demolished in 2017.

Technical Rating