Blue Lake

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Lake · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Best known for its spectacular fall colors and easy access, Blue Lake is a classic hike in Washington's North Cascades. Just 2.2 miles and approximately 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.

Blue Lake is extremely popular during fall larch season (late September-early October). Arrive early, expect crowds, and have a backup plan in case the trail is overcrowded. A Northwest Forest Pass is required for parking. Restrooms available at trailhead.

Begin hiking through a forest and over boardwalks to a big, open meadow at 0.9 miles. During summer, this meadow is covered in wildflowers. If you are visiting in late September or early October, watch for larches; their needles turn golden yellow in the fall. Continue along the trail to re-enter the forest, cross a log bridge over a stream, and arrive at the lake shore.

A large boulder on Blue Lake's west side makes for the perfect picnic perch. From here, check out the Liberty Bell Group towering overhead. Usually viewed from the north at the Washington Pass Overlook, Liberty Bell and the Early Winters Spires are visible over Blue Lake from the southwest. Nearby, a larch arches over the lake for another irresistible North Cascades photo-op.

Various trails run along both sides of the lake, but none encircle it. Head up the signed, 0.4-mile Tarn Loop to extend your hike for better views of Liberty Bell over the lake. Protect this fragile environment by staying on established trails.

- Description by Brandon Fralic, Outdoor Project