Let It Ride Poker Run at 49 Degrees North: A Dynamic Mountain Adventure in Chewelah, Washington
Test your endurance and strategy on the Let It Ride Poker Run at 49 Degrees North in Chewelah, Washington, where rugged forest trails and sweeping mountain views forge an adventurous poker-themed hiking experience. From steep climbs to shaded paths, this run offers both challenge and scenery for all levels of trail enthusiasts.
Plan Your Hydration Strategy
Carry at least 2 liters of water; consider a hydration pack for hands-free access. The trail’s elevation gain and sometimes exposed sections can quickly drain your reserves.
Wear Sturdy Trail Shoes
Opt for footwear with good ankle support and durable soles due to uneven, rocky terrain and loose dirt on inclines.
Start Early or Late to Avoid Hot Sun
Tackle the trail during cooler morning or late afternoon hours to prevent overheating, especially in summer months when the sun presses hard above exposed sections.
Bring a Map or GPS Tracker
The multiple checkpoints during the poker run can be tricky to follow; having a digital or physical trail guide keeps you on course and safe.
Let It Ride Poker Run at 49 Degrees North: A Dynamic Mountain Adventure in Chewelah, Washington
The Let It Ride Poker Run at 49 Degrees North in Chewelah, Washington throws down a trail challenge that’s as much about strategy as stamina. Set on the rugged slopes of the Selkirk Mountains, this event pushes hikers and trail runners alike to navigate a route peppered with checkpoints, where each stop deals a card that could make or break the best poker hand. Beyond the competitive twist, the terrain demands respect: forested sections tight with fir and cedar trees give way to steep inclines that challenge your legs and lungs as the elevation climbs roughly 1,200 feet over 6.5 miles.
From the moment you step onto the trail, the mountain asserts itself as a lively force. Winds whisper through the canopy, branches reach out almost knowingly, and underfoot, the loosening dirt and rocks test your footing. The path’s unevenness requires deliberate steps, reinforcing the need for solid footwear and keen focus.
Expect to move through shaded corridors where sunlight dapples the trail and then burst into clearing spots that reveal panoramic views of the northern Washington wilderness. The Columbia River's distant glint dares you to push further, while the surrounding peaks challenge your pace and stamina. It’s a hike that balances its fierce physical demands with moments that invite you to pause and absorb the wild energy around you.
Preparation is key. Hydration isn’t optional; the energy you expend on steep grades and technical footing demands you carry enough water or a reliable filtration system. Timing your visit during cooler morning or late afternoon hours will help you avoid the midday heat, particularly in summer. Layers matter here; mountain weather can pivot rapidly from warm sun to biting breeze.
Navigating the Let It Ride Poker Run isn’t just about endurance. It’s about reading the mountain and your own limits—knowing when to push and when to hold back. This trail is fiercely itself: untamed, spirited, and demanding. Respect its character and it will offer a rewarding, vivid mountain encounter that rewards the prepared and eager adventurer alike.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Let It Ride Poker Run different from other hikes?
The poker run introduces a game component where hikers collect cards at checkpoints, blending physical challenge with strategic pacing and route management.
Are pets allowed on the trail during the event?
Pets are generally discouraged during the poker run for safety and environmental reasons; check with event organizers for specific policies.
What is the best way to prepare physically for this trail?
Focus on building cardiovascular endurance and leg strength through hill training and trail walking, combined with flexibility and balance exercises to handle uneven terrain.
Is the trail well-marked for first-time visitors?
Markers exist, but due to the competitive nature and checkpoints, bringing a map or GPS tracker improves navigation confidence and helps avoid getting off track.
What wildlife might I see here?
Expect to encounter mule deer, various songbirds, and if lucky, a glimpse of a black bear or bobcat—all creatures quietly claiming this mountain as their own.
Are there facilities near the trailhead?
The 49 Degrees North Ski Area provides basic amenities like restrooms and parking, but plan for limited services on the trail itself.
Recommended Gear
Hydration Pack
Keeps water easily accessible to maintain hydration without stopping frequently.
Trail Running or Hiking Shoes
Provides grip and protects feet against sharp rocks and loose soil.
Lightweight Layered Clothing
Allows you to adjust insulation for temperature swings common in mountain environments.
GPS Device or Trail Map
Helpful for orientation and ensuring you hit all poker run checkpoints without detours.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- "A lesser-known viewpoint just past the mid-point offers a sweeping vista of the Columbia River Valley without the usual crowds."
- "Small alpine meadows bloom in early summer, often overlooked but perfect for a quiet break."
Wildlife
- "The area is home to varied bird species including mountain chickadees and northern flickers, active especially at dawn."
- "Occasional sightings of lynx or mountain lion tracks highlight the wildness still present here."
History
"49 Degrees North began as a ski hill developed in the mid-20th century and has grown to host multi-season events like the poker run, blending recreation with regional culture."