Backpacking Recommendation Round Two

[UplandSetter]

Got some really great backpacking recommendations last time I asked the forum, those recommendations were for early spring backpacking trips.

This time around I'm looking for backpacking recommendations for this time of year around the Methow Valley district of Okanogan NF. We would prefer a route with some good elevation gain so we can get some awesome views of the mountains. Going for two nights so anything in the 20ish mile range (total) is what we're looking for, but mileage isn't the driving factor. Also if you've got a recommendation that isn't in that ranger district or a different NF I'm all ears. Thanks in advance!

[timberghost72]

Rainy Pass to Stehekin 

Drop a vehicle off at Fields Point or in Chelan then drive up to Rainy Pass Hwy 20. Backpack down to Stehekin and take the ferry back down the lake to your 2nd vehicle.

[Bareback]

NF Sauk/Pilot Ridge Loop. At White Pass sneak over to Glacier Meadows for a peak. Good 3 day 2 night 20+ Miles. Go counter clockwise, cause clockwise, NF Sauk to White Pass will test u, it has a 3 mile grind 3 k elevation gain at the end day 1. Second choice, Yellow Aster Butte off of 542, a bit easier with high probability of bear sightings. Really, can’t go wrong anywhere this time of year.

[ganghis]

There's some seriously cool stuff you can do from Hart's pass (like Silver Lake - Buckskin Ridge loop) in the Pasayten, but I think that was closed because of fire?  But if you're in that vicinity, you're not super far from getting into Horseshoe Basin (iron gate trailhead).  Hell, I'd drive 6 hours to backpack into there and it won't be nearly as busy now as it will 2 weeks from now!  Maybe look at a Horseshoe Basin - Windy Peak loop.

[UplandSetter]

I appreciate all the replies. Ended up heading to the Horseshoe Basin and up and around Windy Peak. Heck of a loop, highly recommend. I already want to go back. Will post pics soon if I get the time.

[BD1]

  one of my favorites...my Father in law goes several times a year...not.to.hunt but it is his happy place...his church in a way. He has been going since the early 70's.