East Bank Trail to Hidden Hand Camp

The trailhead for the East Bank Trail is located off Highway 20. You'll find parking available at the trailhead. From there, the trail begins with a short descent.

Information regarding specific dog policies for this trail within Ross Lake National Recreation Area is not provided in the available data. It's always best to check the official National Park Service website for the most current regulations on pets in the area before you go.

Due to its relatively low elevation, this trail is considered a good option for early or late season hikes when many higher elevation trails might still be inaccessible due to snow. It offers a pleasant experience during these shoulder seasons.

The East Bank Trail is located within the Ross Lake National Recreation Area. While there is generally no entrance fee for the recreation area itself, permits may be required for overnight camping at designated sites like Hidden Hand Camp. Always check the official National Park Service website for the latest permit requirements and regulations before your trip.

The trail offers a moderate hiking experience. It features gradual ups and downs, with much of the path being mostly flat, especially the initial 2.8 miles before the junction to Hidden Hand Camp. You'll find a smooth trail with minimal roots or rocks, though you might encounter small trickling streams requiring easy rock steps. The campsite itself is on a knoll, requiring a short downhill walk to reach it after the main trail junction.

You'll enjoy a primarily forested walk, with glimpses of the Ruby Arm of Ross Lake. The initial descent from the trailhead crosses a bridge over Ruby Creek, known for its gorgeous transparent turquoise water. Closer to Hidden Hand Camp, views of Ross Lake become more prominent, and the area around the camp offers picturesque lake views.

Hidden Hand Camp is a designated campsite situated on a knoll above Ross Lake. It provides access to water from a nearby creek, trees suitable for hammocks, and vault toilets. Provisions for hanging food to protect against bears are also available, and bear boxes are sometimes offered for loan from ranger stations.

Yes, the East Bank Trail is part of a longer network. It covers sections of the East Bank Trail (84%), Devils Dome Loop (84%), and Pacific Northwest Trail 03 Washington (84%). It also briefly intersects with the Jack Mountain Trail (13%) and The Great North Cascades Traverse (17%), extending towards Canada and connecting to other trails like the Ruby Arm Trail and Canyon Creek Trail.

Yes, from a bluff past Hidden Hand Camp, a smaller trail leads down to the water, providing an opportunity for swimming in Ross Lake.

Yes, the area around Ruby Creek, near the trailhead, was the site of a gold rush in the 1880s. You might find some remnants and interpretive plaques. The name "Hidden Hand Pass" (through which the main trail climbs) is also tied to a miner named Jack Rowley, who was guided by a pointing hand to find gold in 1879.

The trail is categorized as easy to moderate in difficulty, making it suitable for families and those seeking a pleasant hike. The path generally features gradual ups and downs and is mostly flat for significant sections, especially the initial miles.