Forest, mountain views, and the crystal clear glacial blue lake at the end. Rated as easy for its short length and slight elevation gain, we clocked in 5.3 miles while climbing +960 feet in about … Pit toilets are located in the parking lot and nowhere else that we saw. View my hike: Hike to Blue lake in North Cascades. It’s a short hike that’s easily … This is the first of several short boardwalks you will traverse into a friendly forest. Though you can’t see it past this point, you may be able to hear the cars passing on the road for a little while more. FIND THE TRAILHEAD. Blue Lake Trai, North Cascades National Park Picture: Blue Lake Trail - Check out Tripadvisor members' 1,658 candid photos and videos. The terrain is tough but the scenery is breathtaking. Blue Lake Trai, North Cascades National Park: Hours, Address, Blue Lake Trai Reviews: 5/5. The logs can have some give, so be careful, but once you are over the creek you pass an old dilapidated log cabin. Popular North Cascades National Park Categories, Commonly searched for in North Cascades National Park, Things to Do in North Cascades National Park. Let the sounds of the trail stir your curiosity, In the summer the trail may be dusty, but there is ample shade as you trod the cushy path through a rocky forest. When most hikers refer to Blue Lake… The wilderness of the North Cascades provides many backcountry challenges for experienced hikers, who will find plenty of strenuous trails … The Blue Lake Trail is one of those mid-distance hikes that has gorgeous scenery and is not very steep. Brilliant blue waters. A privy is available at the trailhead. There were no signs so we really didn't know how much farther we had to hike … Blue Lake Trail is a 4.6 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Chelan, Washington that features a lake and is rated as moderate. Discover communities of life adapted to moisture in the west and recurring fire in the east. Blue Lake. Check out more about Blue Lake Trail North Cascades … Dense old growth forest butts against new growth of the last century. Emerging into a meadow a little under halfway there, start looking for wildflowers such as Cascade Azalea or Lupine. Some – like the Blue Lake Trail – are even popular enough to feel a bit “crowded” at times. Larches are unique because they are a deciduous conifer tree. Does the scenery look familiar? Located within 3 hours drive of Seattle, there are numerous options for day hikes here. 4. Take a hike with a professional adventure photographer and document your experience in Pacific Northwest. Washington Trails Association is 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Not bad for a couple in their late 60's. Just 2.2 miles and 1,000 feet of elevation gain from Highway 20, this short hike is a great way to break up the long drive between eastern and western Washington. 11/13/20 Road Closed: The North Cascades Highway is closed for the winter between milepost 134 and 171. What You Need to Know Show more photos. There was ice on part of the trail, so be careful. Image of cascades, reflection, trail - 132396664 Blue Lake Peak is the unofficial name of a 7,800+ ft summit in the North Cascades Range in the U.S. state of Washington.It is located in the Okanogan National Forest on the shared border of Okanogan County and Chelan County.It is situated south of Early Winters Spires, Liberty Bell Mountain, and Washington Pass.Blue Lake is set below its west slope, and Stiletto Peak is to its south. Spent a week in the North Cascades. For the last half mile or so you may find keeping your eyes on the trail difficult to do as they are drawn to the sweeping views of Cutthroat Peak and Whistler Mountain on the northwestern side of Highway 20. The Blue Lake Hike in Washington is one of the best hikes in North Cascades National Park. At 6254 feet, Blue Lake sits quietly a little over two trail miles from Highway 20. Hiking the Blue Lake Trail is a North Cascades favorite. If you see any climbers they are most likely heading that direction.From the meadow you pass over a small creek and step back into the forest. Towering mountains. The Sterling Munro Trail is located in the Ross Lake National Recreation Area. Pictures, map and information for hiking Dock Butte on the Blue Lake Trail in the North Cascades. Explore. Explore the cabin and then perch yourself along the shore on a boulder for a snack and great views of this pristine mountain lake and a possible mountain goat sighting. 705 2nd Ave, Suite 300 The way back was a treat. Stayed around it for about an hour and was amazed by the views, from many angles A bit further there's a small loop that leads to a small pond. The trail to Blue Lake climbs through the forest via steep switchbacks up this sub-alpine lake. The Blue Lake Trail is the best short hike in North Cascades National Park. Feel free to ask ☺️ Have fun ‍♀️‍♀️‍♀️‍♀️, We wanted to hike about 4 miles and this trail was recommended to us by a park ranger at the North Cascades NP visitor center. A rainy September day, adventuring up to a beautiful Alpine Lake in the North Cascades National Park of the beautiful Washington State, USA. › North Cascades National Park › Blue Lake Trail › Photos Photos of Blue Lake Trail Blue Lake Trail. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. At 6254 feet, Blue Lake sits quietly a little over two trail miles from Highway 20. Photo about Blue Lake trail is one of the most popular in North Cascades National Park. Blue Lake Trai, North Cascades National Park Picture: Blue Lake - Check out Tripadvisor members' 1,666 candid photos and videos. It makes for a quick walk down. Hiker Headlines: Highway Closures, Avalanche Info, Outdoor Economy, Firefighters Wanted, Wanapum Planning. Blue Lake is near Washington Pass on North Cascades Highway 20, a short trail that leads to the heart of the mountains. And if you are looking for a short and easy hike with fascinating views, in which all the family members (including even small kids) will find a pleasure, the Blue Lake Trail … Cascade Falls Hike to a great Blue Ridge Parkway waterfall to learn about trees and explore historic cabins. Blue Lake Trai, North Cascades National Park: See 39 reviews, articles, and 88 photos of Blue Lake Trai, ranked No.6 on Tripadvisor among 26 attractions in North Cascades National Park. Unlike other cone … I could jog down hill parts of it. You barely notice. We're in our late 60's and made it with no problem. The trail ends at the Blue Lake, a brilliantly blue lake that is surrounded by towering mountains. Surrounded by green forests and great rocky peaks, Blue Lake is great destination along the North Cascades … ... Ninety-three percent of North Cascades National Park Service … A 4.5-mile out-and-back gaining about 1,100 feet, the trail to Blue Lake Trail … September, when it is still warm and the nature already starts to change into its magnificent autumn finery, is the perfect time for a family outing. If you’re looking for the perfect family-friendly trail, this is it! Don’t worry, the sound will fade away and you will soon forget all about cars and highways as you gaze at the beauty of the North Cascades. Blue Lake Trai, North Cascades National Park Picture: Blue Lake Trail - Check out Tripadvisor members' 1,666 candid photos and videos. When I moved to Washington a little over a year ago I was excited that there were three National Parks within easy reach (at least according to the map). The electric blue water of Diablo & Ross lake are some of the most iconic landmarks in the North Cascades National Park. Image of cascades, hiking, outdoors - 128971878 I say this as the last half mile or more is very steep with small rocks and exposed tree roots. The trail isn't steep, elevation gain is about 1000 ft. Beautiful scenery all the way, pics say it all. Dense old growth forest butts against new growth of the last century. This time, you have incredible views of the backside of Liberty Bell. The trail to Blue Lake climbs through the forest via steep switchbacks up this sub-alpine lake. Approaching from the west, drive 42.1 miles from Newhalem on Highway 20 and find the trailhead on the right. As so many trails like it along the North Cascades Highway, Blue Lake is brimming with majesty. Take your time on this trail. Good workout with … It was an easy trail, took us about 1 hour and 15 minutes to get to the lake from the trailhead. There are three sections to North Cascades National Park Complex: the Chelan Lake National Recreational Area (which includes Stehekin), Ross Lake National Recreational Area, and North Cascades National Park. The larches put on a spectacular show. Started at 0640 am and it was cold in the 40's. The views of Mount Baker only get better from here, so if you’re feeling hardy, continue on to the Dock Butte … Photo by Erynn Allen. This is a pretty trail with mountain views in every direction. A Forest Pass is required at these trailheads (there is no entry fee for North Cascades National Park). Blue Lake Trail, North Cascade National Park, WA My friends and I visited Blue Lake on Saturday July 11, 2020. Our tax identification number is EIN 91-0900134. This is definitely one of the easiest trails while hiking the North Cascades that has an amazing trail end destination. Start off with a small dip in elevation to a short boardwalk. Join Nikhil and over 9,000,000 others on Relive. The weather changes so quickly up here, the … A rainy September day, adventuring up to a beautiful Alpine Lake in the North Cascades National Park of the beautiful Washington State, USA. Included a face to face with a mama goat and her yearling. Blue Lake Trai, North Cascades National Park: Hours, Address, Blue Lake Trai Reviews: 5/5. There's a pit toilet at the trailhead And one picnic table ‍♀️ 5$ fee at a self service station, if u don't hold an annual park pass. Hike by WTA Correspondents: One of the most popular places to see golden larches in the fall is Blue Lake in the North Cascades. Begin hiking through a forest and over boardwalks to a big, open meadow at 0.9 miles. These trees line your path for the … With only 1050 feet of elevation gain this hike is doable for almost everyone. These trees line your path for the majority of the walk, occasionally opening just enough to reveal prominent landmarks like Liberty Bell and Winter Spires from unique angles. When you’re done at Blue Lake, return the way you came. Blue Lake Trai is located in North Cascades National Park. Its a 4.4 mile round-trip hike with a 1100 foot gain in elevation… Blue Lake Trail in the North Cascades of Washington State on Vimeo Beautiful, challenging hike We wanted to hike about 4 miles and this trail was recommended to us by a park ranger at the North Cascades NP visitor center. If you’re driving over Highway 20 and don’t have all day, stop for this mountain gem.With the trailhead parking lot right off the highway, you will waste no time getting onto the trail. The Rainbow Lake Trail provides access to one of the park's steepest passes, Bowan Pass, as well as deep blue Rainbow Lake. Showing results 1 - 90 of 740. As so many trails like it along the North Cascades Highway, Blue Lake is brimming with majesty. Sorry, there are no tours or activities available to book online for the date(s) you selected. When the sun came through, so did the bugs. If you pass the Washington Pass Overlook, you have gone too far.From the east, drive 31.3 miles from Winthrop on Highway 20 and find the trailhead on the left a little under a mile past the Washington Pass Overlook. Both overlooks are simple pullouts off highway 20 and clearly marked. This time, you have incredible views of the backside of Liberty Bell. The easy, 1-mile loop of the Cascades Trail explores the forest that perches on the edge of the Blue Ridge. Blue Lake is a great choice if you are short on time but looking for a nice alpine lake destination set against a dramastic mountain cirque. Please choose a different date. Hike to this sparkling alpine lake surrounded by jagged peaks and massive waterfalls. United States ; Washington (WA) North Cascades National Park ; ... We also saw a black bear that was walking the trail path in front of us about a 10th of a mile from the parking lot. This is a popular climbing location that is part of the nearby Liberty Bell group. Ross Lake Trail General Description. Dock Butte boasts sweeping views of Mount Baker, Baker Lake, and several prominent peaks in the North Cascades and Olympic Peninsula. North Cascades Highway, North Cascades National Park Picture: Blue Lake Trail - Check out Tripadvisor members' 1,637 candid photos and videos. Dock Butte The mountains of the North Cascades are not easy but Dock Butte has a road high on its shoulder allowing hikers to get close to the summit. Wilderness camping during a freak September snow storm far above Blue Lake in the heart of the North Cascades, Washington. Listen to cascading waters in forested valleys. This is definitely one of the easiest trails while hiking the North Cascades that has an amazing trail … Would you recommend this place or activity to a friend looking for an, Is this a must-do if you are traveling with a, Is this a place or activity you would go to on a, Is this a place or activity you would suggest for, Are the prices for this place or activity, Is this a romantic place or activity that you would suggest for, Highway 20, North Cascades National Park, WA 98862. This is a great to add on to your North Cascades to-do list. Blue Lake is a fantastic alpine lake along a moderate trail in the sawtooth North Cascades, featuring views of some of the most impressive peaks in the range. The lake is much more than I have expected. The weather changes so … Two Days in the North Cascades National Park, Washington Itinerary- The North Cascades is considered one of the least visited National Parks in the US. more, Woodstone Pizzeria At Wesola Polana & Rolling Huts. Park in The Cascades Overlook at Milepost 271.9, nine miles north of … We love it because of the spectacular scenery and ease of access. Photo by trip reporter Janette Powell. The North Cascades National Park is the perfect hiking destination, whether you’re looking for adventure, or a relaxing holiday with the whole family. Trail data: Blue Lake is about four miles round trip, elevation gain 1,000 feet. When you see the lake, continue right over Blue Lake’s outlet by carefully stepping on rocks or the makeshift log bridge. Name: Blue Lake Trail Type: Out and Back Trailhead: Blue Lake Trailhead Map: Google Maps Length: 1.6 miles Time: 2 hours Nearest Major City: Cascade Best time of year: June- October … The North Casacades is an easy location to see a lot on a long or short weekend visit for 3 or 4 days. Subscribe to our free email newsletter for hiking events, news, gear reviews and more. Blue Lake Trail is located near the top of Washington Pass on Highway 20 in Northern Washington State. Ancient forests, islands, and water taxis. Download the app It's hidden beauty is worth seeing, the hard part is planning an itinerary and finding places to stay in this area of Washington. It is primarily a backpacker or advanced stock use trail, since it lies deep within the park and is accesed via several other trails. With towering granite peaks, forests, meadows, wildflowers, and of course the beautiful mountain lake … Slow ascent. Took me 15 minutes to get warmer and and an hour to reach the lake. Blue Lake, one of Idaho’s better kept secrets, rests just outside of Cascade tucked back in the Boise National Forest near the summit of Snowbank Mountain and Granite Peak. It’s short and relatively easy, so it’s perfect for almost all ages and ability levels. At a quarter mile, the boardwalks end and you get your last glance at the highway. A Quick Geography Lesson. Blue Lake Trai: Early october hike - See 39 traveller reviews, 88 candid photos, and great deals for North Cascades National Park, WA, at Tripadvisor. The North Cascades National Park has some of the most incredible mountain scenery in the Pacific Northwest. You can go swimming in the sub-alpine lake, but even in the summer, the temperature of this lake … Wander for just a handful of miles, or hike its full 24-mile … If you are brave enough, take a plunge into the lakes icy waters or just cool your feet. Trail Details. With towering granite peaks, forests, meadows, wildflowers, and of course the beautiful mountain lake surrounded by granite that reaches for the sky, this short hike is easily a classic and should be on your must-hike list. Most of the trail was shaded. It is a great option for beginner hikers looking to up their hiking … Blue Lake Trai, North Cascades National Park Picture: Blue Lake trail - Check out Tripadvisor members' 1,637 candid photos and videos. Seattle, WA 98104. Best known for its spectacular fall colors and easy access, Blue Lake is a classic hike in Washington's North Cascades. We have reviews of the best places to see in North Cascades … Great hike on a beautiful afternoon. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in December. Dock Butte is one of Washington's prominence peaks ranking #101 with 2,309 feet of prominence. "The North Cascades are Calling!" Explore jagged peaks crowned by more than 300 glaciers. Located right off Highway 20 (no forest road required), the trailhead is consistently … It begins from the northwest side of the North Cascades Visitor Center. The North Cascades has a lot of longer hikes and this is definitely the best short (shorter) hike in the park. If all this isn't enough, a short side trail goes to Blue Lake, a small scenic lake in a cirque. Visit one of the best old-growth hikes in the North Cascades, with views of a vivid blue lake and jagged, snowy peaks thrown in for good measure. Also, keep an eye out for the Early Winters Spire with its massive granite peaks. Ken Peterson. 41 reviews. For travelers passionate about Instagram this is a great opportunity to gather photos for your feed. I want to let you know about North Cascades Institute on Diablo Lake … Surrounded by green forests and great rocky peaks, Blue Lake is great destination along the North Cascades Highway, and is a relatively easy route for those with less experience. Your photos and experience sound fantastic. This is my first post from North Cascades National Park. The rest of the hike passes fairly quickly as you skirt the Liberty Mountain Group. They roped off the area to help limit lake access, which is very considerate. Less than three hours from Seattle, an alpine landscape beckons. A mama goat and her yearling the hike though and we can recommend! Have crowds short hiking season I was only able to make one overnight trip North... 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