Upper Priest Lake Trail 302 is a pleasant, easy hike that traverses a predominately Douglas Fir forest for the first few miles. The trail then drops into an area of old growth cedar as it approaches the north end of Upper Priest Lake. This area of giant cedars was recently acquired by the US Forest Service in order to preserve the grove for the enjoyment of future generations.

The trail crosses Ruby Creek as well as other smaller unnamed creeks and eventually follows the east shoreline of Upper Priest Lake to Trapper Campground. The trail passes by an old mine shaft, Coolin's cabin, and early hunting stands perched high in the ancient cedars.

The tread of the trail is in good shape and several wet areas are traversed via trail bridges. However, depending on climatic conditions, portions of the trail in the cedar grove area may be somewhat boggy.

The route to the Trail 302 trailhead is via USFS Road 302 (an extension of State Highway 57) from Nordman. Travel past the Roosevelt Cedar Grove (14 miles from Nordman) and through Granite Pass. At the major intersection just beyond Granite Pass (14 1/2 miles) continue on USFS Road 1013 until it intersects with USFS Road 655 (approximately 6 1/2 miles). Turn right onto Road 655 and proceed for approximately 1/2 mile. The trailhead will be on your right and the vehicle parking area to your left, across from the trailhead.

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