South Fork Tieton Trail #1120(edit)

Overview

This is a moderate lollipop loop trail in the Goat Rocks Wilderness. It is far less traveled than Snowgrass Flats or Cispus Basin both because it is on the east side of Goat Rocks, further from major metropolitan areas, and because this trail is not as scenic. But, from the South Tieton Trail, other routes lead up to gorgeous meadows and scenery as well as Gilbert Peak for the adventurous.

From Conrad Meadows trailhead hike SW along the South Tieton Road, to a gated road and sign pointing the way to the left. The trail passes through private property at Conrad Meadows before entering the Wilderness Area. After ~4 miles the loop begins. Traveling clockwise leads up switchbacks to Surprise Lake, a lovely lake with campsites.

Continuing around, the trail crosses several forks of the South Tieton and meadows. From this west side of the loop, there are primitive trails that lead up to No Name Lake, Gilbert Peak, Meade Glacier, and waterfalls from Conrad Glacier. This side hike should not be missed.

The north section of the loop is dry, so fill up on water for the descent back to the stem of the lollipop.

Getting Started

The hike starts at the Conrad Meadows trailhead. From US-12 drive south on NF-1200, Tieton Reservoir Road, for 4.5 miles. Turn left onto NF-1000, South Tieton Road, at the reservoir. Drive for 12.6 miles to the large parking area at Conrad Meadows. The last seven miles of road is gravel, but in good condition.
The trailhead has a privy, but no water.

Taking Children

Suitable for teenagers and motivated tweens. Conrad Meadows can be hot and dry with exposure to the sun. Surprise Lake would make a fun overnight backpack.