Blue Lake Trail North Cascades Washington
A breathtaking alpine lake hike in North Cascades National Park, famous for its vibrant blue waters and spectacular fall larch colors.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak golden larch season
Blue Lake Trail North Cascades Washington
Best Time
Peak golden larch season

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking alpine lake hike in North Cascades National Park, famous for its vibrant blue waters and spectacular fall larch colors.
"One of the best alpine lake views in Washington, especially during the magical fall larch season."
🎯 Go Early for Parking
Arrive by sunrise or 7 AM on weekends to secure a parking spot and beat the crowds. :car:
👟 Essential Hiking Gear
Bring sturdy hiking shoes, especially in early June due to snow. Crampons are highly recommended then. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Azure Blue Lake
End of the trail
A breathtaking alpine lake with unbelievably vibrant blue water, reflecting the surrounding granite peaks.

Golden Larch Trees
Along the trail and at the lake
During fall, the trail transforms with golden larches, creating a fairytale-like landscape.

Mountain Goat Sightings
Near the lake and along the trail
Keep an eye out for these majestic creatures often spotted grazing peacefully in the alpine meadows.

Tarn Loop Trail
Past the main lake
An optional extension offering even more stunning views and a chance to explore further.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Larch Season
Be Prepared for Trail Conditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Go Early for Parking
Arrive by sunrise or 7 AM on weekends to secure a parking spot and beat the crowds.
:car:👟 Essential Hiking Gear
Bring sturdy hiking shoes, especially in early June due to snow. Crampons are highly recommended then.
:athletic_shoe:🦟 Mosquito Repellent Needed
In June, mosquitoes are relentless. Pack strong insect repellent to make your hike more enjoyable.
:bug:🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Cell service is spotty. Download trail maps beforehand for navigation.
:iphone:Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Go Early for Parking
Arrive by sunrise or 7 AM on weekends to secure a parking spot and beat the crowds.
:car:👟 Essential Hiking Gear
Bring sturdy hiking shoes, especially in early June due to snow. Crampons are highly recommended then.
:athletic_shoe:🦟 Mosquito Repellent Needed
In June, mosquitoes are relentless. Pack strong insect repellent to make your hike more enjoyable.
:bug:🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Cell service is spotty. Download trail maps beforehand for navigation.
:iphone:🏞️ Explore the Tarn Loop
Don't miss the extra Tarn Loop trail for even more spectacular views.
:camerawithflash:🐐 Watch for Wildlife
You might spot mountain goats! Keep a safe distance and enjoy observing them.
:deer:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Blue Lake Trail's stunning azure lake and the magical golden larches in autumn, calling it one of the best alpine lake views in Washington. While generally moderate, snow in early June can make it challenging, and mosquitoes are prevalent. Some find parking difficult during peak times, and cell service is absent.
"The Blue Lake Trail in North Cascades National Park is a gentle 7-kilometer round-trip hike, making it suitable for all ages. The trail winds through lush forests and leads to a crystal-clear alpine lake that mirrors the surrounding peaks—an absolutely stunning sight. In June, the mosquitoes are relentless and aggressive, so strong insect repellent is a must. Along the trail, we were lucky to encounter a family of mountain goats—five in total, three adults and two kids—peacefully grazing nearby. Not far from them stood a lone bachelor goat, quietly watching from a distance, as if searching for a place to belong."
LEI ZHAO
"Blue Lake is beautiful, but tougher than expected in mid-June due to snow. Although it’s a moderate hike, snow made the trail slippery and slow, especially near the end — some parts were steep enough to make your heart skip a beat. Wear good hiking shoes and download a trail map beforehand. Parking is roadside, and a Northwest Forest Pass is required. Go prepared, the view is worth it!"
Rushikesh Kadam
"Awesome, moderate hike. Took our family about 4 hours round trip. The snow (we did the hike early June) really slows you down and there are a few sketchy parts with steep drop-offs close to the lake. Crampons highly recommend.
Definitely worth the hike, the views are amazing! And if you’re brave, take a plunge in the clear, frozen water, you’ll come up with an epic snot-rocket!"
QuadRAdventures
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Blue Lake Trailhead is located off Highway 20 in North Cascades National Park, Washington. It's a popular access point, and parking is available roadside. Be aware that parking fills up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak season.
Public transportation options directly to the Blue Lake Trailhead are very limited. It's best to have your own vehicle or arrange a ride.
The drive from Seattle to the Blue Lake Trailhead is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Yes, a Northwest Forest Pass is required for parking at the Blue Lake Trailhead. You can purchase these passes online or at various ranger stations and outdoor retailers.
Highway 20, which leads to the Blue Lake Trail, is typically closed in winter due to snow. It usually reopens in late spring or early summer. Always check WSDOT for current road conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While there isn't a specific entrance fee for the trail itself, a Northwest Forest Pass is required for parking at the trailhead.
The Blue Lake Trail is open year-round, weather permitting. However, access can be restricted during winter months due to snow.
No, tickets are not required for Blue Lake Trail. Entry is on a first-come, first-served basis, and parking is the main constraint.
To avoid crowds, aim for a weekday visit or arrive at the trailhead by sunrise (around 7 AM) on weekends. Visiting during the shoulder seasons can also offer a more peaceful experience.
No special permits are needed for day hiking the Blue Lake Trail. However, if you plan to backpack or camp in the North Cascades National Park, you will need to obtain the appropriate permits.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Blue Lake Trail is generally considered moderate. It's about 4.6 miles round-trip with an elevation gain of around 900-1,050 feet. The trail is gradual and family-friendly, though snow in early season can make it more challenging.
Most visitors take about 2 to 4 hours to complete the Blue Lake Trail, depending on their pace and how much time they spend enjoying the lake. Families might take a bit longer.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes with good traction. Layers are recommended as mountain weather can change quickly. In early June, waterproof boots and potentially microspikes or crampons are advisable due to snow.
Dogs are generally not permitted on trails within National Parks, including the Blue Lake Trail, to protect wildlife and natural resources. Always check the official National Park Service website for the most current regulations.
Yes, the Blue Lake Trail is considered family-friendly and suitable for children, especially when there's no snow. The gradual incline and relatively short distance make it manageable for most kids.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early morning or late afternoon light offers the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photos of the lake and surrounding peaks. Golden hour during fall is particularly spectacular.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake and mountain vistas. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife photography, like mountain goats. Don't forget a polarizing filter to enhance the blue of the lake.
Absolutely! The trail winds through forests and meadows, offering diverse photographic subjects. Look for interesting trees, wildflowers (in season), and distant mountain views before you even reach the lake.
The classic shot is of the vibrant blue lake with the granite peaks reflected in its surface. The golden larches in autumn also create iconic, colorful scenes.
Drone usage is restricted in National Parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check the specific regulations for North Cascades National Park before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photographers
🚶♀️ Solo Hikers & Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Larch Season
While the larches are the star of the show in autumn, the trail offers beauty throughout the hiking season. In early summer, you might encounter wildflowers, and the surrounding evergreen forests provide a lush backdrop. The lake itself, with its striking azure color, is a constant draw, regardless of the season.
Navigating Trail Conditions and Safety
Mosquitoes can be a significant nuisance in early summer. Bringing strong insect repellent is a must for a comfortable hike during June and July. For those seeking a bit more adventure, continuing on the Tarn Loop trail offers additional stunning vistas and a chance to extend the hike. Always be aware of your surroundings, especially near steep drop-offs, and be prepared for changing mountain weather by dressing in layers.
Wildlife Encounters at Blue Lake
Beyond mountain goats, keep an eye out for smaller creatures like chipmunks and birds. The diverse ecosystem of the North Cascades supports a variety of wildlife, making every hike a potential adventure. Observing these animals in their natural habitat is a privilege, so practice responsible wildlife viewing etiquette.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit