Middle Fork Snoqualmie Valley History Hike

Join us for an unforgettable morning amidst the breathtaking scenery of the Middle Fork Snoqualmie River Valley, nestled in the heart of the Mountains to Sound Greenway National Heritage Area. Middle Fork history expert Monty Vanderbilt and Mike Stenger from the Greenway Trust will lead you through this history hike. Together, we'll meet at the Middle Fork Trailhead and then walk over and hike up the Garfield Ledges Trail, with expansive views of the river valley below, and the majestic Stegosaurus Butte and Preacher Mountain in the distance.

During the hike, participants will learn (and see!) how this valley has transformed over the past century. We’ll journey through time, exploring the impacts of industries like logging, mining, and railroads; revisit the 1990s to learn about how the Middle Fork Valley was cared for after decades of negative use and neglect; and make our way to recent years and the major investment in the recreational infrastructure you see today. This hike will involve numerous stops where these tales come to life, supported by history experts and historic photos and maps to help shape the day. 

These events are free to attend, but we welcome donations to support the ongoing work of our nonprofit and to help offset the cost of running programming such as this. Thank you for supporting the Greenway Trust!

• Wear sturdy hiking shoes and comfortable clothing
• Plenty of water (at least one liter)
• Sun protection
• Snacks and/or packed lunch (we will picnic together at the top of the hike)
• NW Forest Pass
• Be sure to complete your online waiver in advance

Please meet at the Middle Fork Trailhead (Google Map Link) and be ready to hike at 9 a.m. Look for the Mountains to Sound Greenway Trust event sign!

From Seattle, drive east on I-90 to exit 34 (Edgewick Road). Turn left (north) onto 468th Ave SE and follow it to the junction with the Middle Fork Snoqualmie Road (Forest Road 56). Turn right and continue up the Middle Fork Snoqualmie Road for 11.8 miles to the Middle Fork trailhead parking area on the right.

Please note that a Northwest Forest Pass is required at this trailhead. We highly encourage carpooling whenever possible!

After meeting at the Middle Fork Trailhead, we will hike over to the Garfield Ledges Trail together

There will be no cell reception at the Middle Fork Trailhead.

Google Map

Just 40 miles from downtown Seattle, the Middle Fork Snoqualmie Valley offers a rare blend of wild beauty and easy access within the heart of the Mountains to Sound Greenway National Heritage Area. Here, rivers, forests, and mountain views come together in a place where people of all ages and abilities can connect with nature.

Over the past 30 years, the Mountains to Sound Greenway Trust and partners have helped transform this valley into a model for sustainable recreation and ecological care. Now, we’re working to secure its future by building a long-term stewardship fund to maintain trails, protect habitat, and ensure this special place remains accessible for generations to come.

Join us on the trail and experience the valley for yourself.

The Greenway Trust coordinated and supervised the Garfield Ledges trail construction, including participation by Greenway Trust trail crews, US Forest Service staff and trail crews, volunteers, Northwest Trails, Inc., and McClung Construction Company, with support and contributions from many others. Work on the trail was completed on National Public Lands Day in September 2019.

Questions or need to cancel? Please contact us at info@mtsgreenway.org