Tin Cup Joe falls via Middle Fork Trail and Derrick Lake Trail
1.9 mi
Distance
55 min
Time
terrain
623 ft
Elev Gain
Overview
This is a easy one way trail in Alpine Lakes Wilderness.
Rate this Hike
★★★★★
Started from the Dingford Creek trailhead as I've got a capable 4x4 high-clearance vehicle and I'd suggest having at least a high clearance vehicle if attempting to drive down this forest road. Getting to the hike is via Middle Fork Trail 1003 and it can be accessed from the Middle Fork Snoqualmie Trailhead or the one I took. That trail is relatively flat and offers nice views from both directions, with the Dingford Creek TH being the shorter way to get there.
The start of the Tin Cup Joe falls trail is either ~10ft or so before or after the Cripple Creek bridge, depending on what direction you came. I found the trail start to be obvious enough and just where Gaia said it would be. I would highly suggest having the Gaia map downloaded, wear shoes/boots with good traction (not Nikes), and have a decent sense of direction as it can be quite easy to lose the trail at times.
I would rate the hike as moderate only because of the state of the trail. There are many many blowdowns to navigate, lots of roots to trip over, and I dare say the trail hasn't seen maintenance in quite some time. This trail is probably not the best for a novice, unless you're looking for some adventure.
Having said all that, I had lots of fun and the reward at the end was pretty spectacular. This one is well hidden and I almost hope it stays that way.
Gaia said it was 4.72 miles round trip with 1051ft of elevation gain. My Garmin Instinct said it was 5.74 miles with an elevation gain of 951ft.
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