Van Epps Pass Trail (4W302) is a classic Cle Elum–area jeep trail in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, just north of Roslyn and Ronald, Washington. It branches off Fortune Creek Jeep Trail (4W301) in the Fortune Creek drainage and climbs to Van Epps Pass and the old Van Epps Mine area — roughly 3.5–4 miles one way, with a high point near 5,800–5,900 ft.

Compared with the rockier Fortune Creek route, Van Epps is often described as more dirt-oriented, but it’s not a free ride. Expect rocky stretches, a dry creek-bed section, and occasional stream crossings. Near the top, the trail can split; one side is usually a bit harder than the other. Many drivers take one line up and the other down. The short Van Epps Loop (4W303) (~0.7–0.8 mi) peels off just southwest of the pass if you want a little extra.

The payoff is alpine views — Hawkins Mountain and the surrounding Cascades — plus remnants of the area’s mining past (gold, silver, and lead workings in the broader Fortune Creek / Hawkins Mountain system). Combined with Fortune Creek and Gallagher Head Lake, it makes a strong full day in the Cle Elum Ranger District.

The season is typically mid-June through about mid-November, depending on snow. Early season can still hold snow patches on the north side of the pass; late season brings washouts and mud. Check with the Cle Elum Ranger District (509-852-1100) before you go.

High-clearance 4WD is the practical minimum. Stock capable vehicles can manage when conditions are good; wet or early/late season favors more clearance, better tires, and a careful driver. Full-size long-wheelbase rigs will have a harder time on tighter, rockier bits.

Getting there: From Cle Elum / Roslyn, follow the Salmon la Sac / upper Cle Elum Valley roads to Forest Road 4330 and the Fortune Creek system. Van Epps (4W302) leaves 4W301 in the Fortune Creek drainage. Bring a current Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM), onX/Gaia, or a GPX track — signage can be sparse and junctions easy to miss.

https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/okawen/recreation/recarea/?recid=57897&actid=93

https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/okawen/recarea/?recid=57899

If you’d like to author this post, add details, a GPS file, or images reach out to me with the Contact Us form below.