Packsaddle Lake
A popular, short hike to a beautiful alpine lake, perfect for a quick nature escape with rewarding views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Packsaddle Lake
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A popular, short hike to a beautiful alpine lake, perfect for a quick nature escape with rewarding views.
"Go expecting a nice, straightforward walk to a pretty lake with lots of other people who had the same idea."
🚗 Road to Trailhead
An SUV or truck is best for the rough road, but sedans can manage if driven slowly .
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Needed
The trail is steep and can be slippery with loose rock; wear good hiking shoes .
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.5 · 28 reviews
Type
Hiking Area
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Packsaddle Lake
Trailhead to the lake
A scenic, relatively easy hike to a pretty alpine lake, perfect for a quick nature escape.
Steep but Short Trail
Trail leading to the lake
A brisk, rewarding climb offering stunning views as you ascend to the lake.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds
Trail Conditions & Gear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Road to Trailhead
An SUV or truck is best for the rough road, but sedans can manage if driven slowly.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Needed
The trail is steep and can be slippery with loose rock; wear good hiking shoes.
🦟 Bug Spray is Essential
Mosquitoes and deer flies are common, especially in summer. Pack repellent!
⏰ Weekday Visits Recommended
Avoid weekend crowds for a more serene experience at this popular spot.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Road to Trailhead
An SUV or truck is best for the rough road, but sedans can manage if driven slowly.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Needed
The trail is steep and can be slippery with loose rock; wear good hiking shoes.
🦟 Bug Spray is Essential
Mosquitoes and deer flies are common, especially in summer. Pack repellent!
⏰ Weekday Visits Recommended
Avoid weekend crowds for a more serene experience at this popular spot.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Packsaddle Lake offers a scenic and relatively easy hike to a pretty alpine lake, making it a popular choice for a quick nature escape. Visitors appreciate the beautiful views and the opportunity for a refreshing swim. However, its popularity means it can get very crowded, especially on weekends, and the trail's steepness and loose rock require caution.
"If you're looking for a tuckering, lake achieving hike that you could possibly pop out a tent at the end, you're barking up the wrong mountain; this one is close, it's easy, and it's popular for a reason. Don't go expecting to find yourself alone with nature—go expecting a nice, straightforward walk to a pretty lake with lots of other people who had the same idea. It's a great spot, just not a secret one."
Paperback Mann
"This was a very scenic hike! The drive up to the trail head is doable in a mini van if you take it slow. We drove in a 3 series bmw and didn't bottom out once. As far as the hike, it is steep but it's a short hike. We went up in July '19 and the trail was slippery from the lose rock mixed with the steepness. Take your time if you aren't sure footed and you'll be fine, I didn't fall once while my 6 yr old slipped like 12x. The views are amazing! The water was brisk but defiantly swimable. Bring bug spray! Lots of mosquitoes and deer flies when we went."
J Tay187
"Easy hike, about 3/4 of a mile in so 1.5 round trip."
Katelyn M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The road to the Packsaddle Lake trailhead can be rough. While some visitors have successfully navigated it in sedans by driving slowly, an SUV or truck is generally recommended for a smoother journey.
No, the road leading to the Packsaddle Lake trailhead is typically unpaved and can be quite rough, with loose rocks.
The drive involves navigating an unpaved, potentially rough road. Taking it slow and steady is advised, especially if you are not in a high-clearance vehicle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no specific ticket required for entry to Packsaddle Lake itself. It's a natural area accessible via a public trail.
Information regarding parking fees can vary. It's advisable to check local forest service or park advisories before your visit, though many natural trailheads are free.
Packsaddle Lake is generally accessible during daylight hours. As it's an outdoor natural area, there are no strict operating hours, but it's best to visit when there's sufficient light for the hike.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike to Packsaddle Lake is quite short, approximately 3/4 of a mile one way, making it about a 1.5-mile round trip. It's considered an easy hike in terms of distance.
While short, the Packsaddle Lake trail is steep and can be slippery due to loose rock, especially for those not sure-footed. It requires a moderate level of fitness.
Yes, the water in Packsaddle Lake is often described as brisk but definitely swimmable, especially during warmer months like July.
Packsaddle Lake is a popular spot and can get quite crowded, particularly on weekends and Sunday afternoons. Weekday visits are recommended for a less crowded experience.
Bring sturdy hiking shoes, bug spray for mosquitoes and deer flies, water, and snacks. Consider a camera to capture the scenic views.
🎫 🦟 Nature & Wildlife
Yes, mosquitoes and deer flies can be prevalent at Packsaddle Lake, especially during the summer months. It's highly recommended to bring effective bug spray.
While specific wildlife sightings aren't frequently detailed, typical mountain and forest fauna might be present. The primary concern for visitors is often insects like mosquitoes and deer flies.
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