Blue Lake Trail, North Cascades, WA - Image 1
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Blue Lake Trail North Cascades Washington

4.9
·307 reviews·Winthrop, United States

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early to mid-October

Peak golden larch season

CrowdHigh
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Blue Lake Trail, North Cascades, WA - Image 1

Blue Lake Trail North Cascades Washington

Best Time

Early to mid-October

Peak golden larch season

CrowdHigh
Highlights

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.

4.9
(307 reviews)

"One of the best alpine lake views in Washington, especially during the magical fall larch season."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Azure Blue Lake

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

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

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

Tarn Loop Trail

Past the main lake

An optional extension offering even more stunning views and a chance to explore further.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Larch Season

The Blue Lake Trail is famous for its stunning fall colors, especially the golden larches. This vibrant display typically peaks in early to mid-October. Visiting during this time offers a magical experience, but be prepared for crowds. Consider a weekday visit or an early morning start to avoid the busiest periods and fully appreciate the autumn beauty. TikTok+2

Be Prepared for Trail Conditions

While generally moderate, the Blue Lake Trail can present challenges depending on the season. Early June can still have significant snow, making parts slippery and steep, requiring good hiking shoes and potentially crampons. Reddit+1 Mosquitoes can also be intense in early summer. Always download offline maps, as cell service is unreliable in the North Cascades. Reddit

Best Times

When
Early to mid-October
Why
Peak golden larch season
Crowd
High
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Beat the weekend crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Early June
Why
Wildflowers and potential snow
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍Blue Lake Trail - North Cascades National Park. RT 4.6 Miles & 900ft Elevation gain. Did this trail back in August & I kept the original audio (birds chirping) but it also captured some noise from my movement/breathing. Sorry about that. Definitely one of my fav spots on earth & I live for mornings like these. #Hiking #lake #glacial #northcascades #nationalpark #sunrise #reflection #nature ...
@hoehoeyay
6.2K likes • 94.9K views

🎯 Go Early for Parking

Arrive by sunrise or 7 AM on weekends to secure a parking spot and beat the crowds. Reddit :car:

👟 Essential Hiking Gear

Bring sturdy hiking shoes, especially in early June due to snow. Crampons are highly recommended then. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

🏔️ Blue lake trail WA 🏔️ ⬇️More info ⬇️ Distance: ~4.4 miles round‑trip (some report up to 4.6 miles) • Elevation Gain: Around 1,050 ft (estimates range from ~900–1,100 ft) • Highest Elevation: 6,254 ft at the lake • Difficulty: Easy to moderate—gradual and family-friendly ⸻ 🌿 Scenic Highlights • Alpine lake views: Awe‑inspiring azure water set against granite peaks—Cutthroat, W...
@jtx_pnw
5.8K likes • 52.1K views
Blue Lake Trail, North Cascades Listed as 4.6 miles and 915 feet elevation gain. We clocked 6.2 miles and 1,000 feet elevation gain with the extra Tarn Loop and exploring. For sure do the extra loop, it’s beautiful. Video of pretty larches but also other sections of the trail, because I like knowing what the whole hike might entail, not just the pretty bit at the top. Kid friendly but steep ...
outdoor.fun.for.kids.wa
133 likes • 8.8K views

🦟 Mosquito Repellent Needed

In June, mosquitoes are relentless. Pack strong insect repellent to make your hike more enjoyable. Reddit :bug:

🗺️ Download Offline Maps

Cell service is spotty. Download trail maps beforehand for navigation. Reddit :iphone:

Celebrating the first day of Larch Madness at 📍Blue Lake Trail, North Cascades, Washington State 4.6m RT 915ft Elevation Gain Looking for the best fall hikes in Washington State? Blue Lake Trail is one of the top hikes to see the fall colors. Here you can watch the beautiful larch trees change color amongst a brilliant scene: a teal lake, granite peaks and gorgeous mountain spires. Will you ...
chloeandtrey
865 likes • 47K views

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. Reddit :car:

👟 Essential Hiking Gear

Bring sturdy hiking shoes, especially in early June due to snow. Crampons are highly recommended then. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

🦟 Mosquito Repellent Needed

In June, mosquitoes are relentless. Pack strong insect repellent to make your hike more enjoyable. Reddit :bug:

🗺️ Download Offline Maps

Cell service is spotty. Download trail maps beforehand for navigation. Reddit :iphone:

🏞️ Explore the Tarn Loop

Don't miss the extra Tarn Loop trail for even more spectacular views. InstagramReddit :camerawithflash:

🐐 Watch for Wildlife

You might spot mountain goats! Keep a safe distance and enjoy observing them. Reddit+1 :deer:

What Travellers Say

4.9
(307 reviews)

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

Stunning azure lake
Golden larch colors
Mountain goat sightings

What People Dislike

Crowded parking
Snow in early June
Aggressive mosquitoes

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. TikTokReddit

Public transportation options directly to the Blue Lake Trailhead are very limited. It's best to have your own vehicle or arrange a ride. Reddit

The drive from Seattle to the Blue Lake Trailhead is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. TikTok

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

The Blue Lake Trail is open year-round, weather permitting. However, access can be restricted during winter months due to snow. Reddit

No, tickets are not required for Blue Lake Trail. Entry is on a first-come, first-served basis, and parking is the main constraint. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ 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. TikTokReddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. TikTokReddit

📸 📸 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. TikTok+1

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. Instagram

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. Instagram+1

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. TikTokInstagram

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. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Blue Lake Trail is a fantastic option for families looking for a scenic hike in the North Cascades. Its moderate difficulty, with a gradual incline and a manageable distance of around 4.6 miles round-trip, makes it accessible for children. TikTokReddit The payoff at the end – a stunning alpine lake – is sure to captivate young adventurers. Remember to pack plenty of snacks, water, and sun protection. If visiting in early June, be prepared for potential snow and bring appropriate footwear for the kids. Reddit The chance to spot mountain goats can also be a huge hit with children! Reddit

📸 Photographers

For photographers, the Blue Lake Trail is a dream destination, especially during Larch Madness in the fall. The vibrant golden larches against the deep blue lake and rugged peaks offer unparalleled photographic opportunities. TikTokInstagram Early morning and late afternoon light (golden hour) provide the best conditions for capturing the dramatic scenery. TikTokInstagram Don't forget a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive views and consider a telephoto lens for potential wildlife shots. Downloading offline maps is essential, as you'll want to be prepared to stay for the best light without worrying about navigation. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Hikers & Budget Travelers

Solo hikers and budget travelers will find the Blue Lake Trail rewarding. The hike itself is free, though a Northwest Forest Pass is required for parking, which can be shared if traveling with others. Reddit The trail is well-trafficked, offering a sense of security for solo hikers. Visiting on a weekday can help avoid peak season costs associated with lodging and potentially offer a more peaceful experience. Reddit Packing your own food and water is essential, as amenities are scarce. The stunning natural beauty provides an incredible return on investment for your time and effort. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Magic of Larch Season

The Blue Lake Trail is arguably most famous for its spectacular display of golden larches during the fall. These deciduous conifers turn a brilliant yellow-gold, transforming the alpine landscape into something out of a fairytale. This phenomenon, often referred to as 'Larch Madness,' draws significant crowds, particularly in early to mid-October. TikTok+2 The contrast between the vibrant yellow needles, the deep blue of the lake, and the rugged granite peaks is a photographer's dream. If you're planning a visit during this time, be prepared for busy trails and parking lots. Arriving very early or visiting on a weekday is highly recommended to fully enjoy the experience without overwhelming crowds. Reddit

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. TikTokInstagram

Navigating Trail Conditions and Safety

The Blue Lake Trail, while moderate, can present unexpected challenges. In early June, significant snowpack can linger, making the trail slippery and steep in sections, especially near the lake. Hikers have reported needing good hiking shoes and even crampons for traction. Reddit Downloading an offline trail map is crucial, as cell service is unreliable in the North Cascades. Reddit

Mosquitoes can be a significant nuisance in early summer. Bringing strong insect repellent is a must for a comfortable hike during June and July. Reddit For those seeking a bit more adventure, continuing on the Tarn Loop trail offers additional stunning vistas and a chance to extend the hike. InstagramReddit 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

One of the unexpected joys of hiking the Blue Lake Trail is the potential for wildlife sightings. Several visitors have reported encountering mountain goats grazing peacefully near the lake or along the trail. Reddit+1 These majestic animals add an extra layer of wonder to the experience. Remember to maintain a safe distance and avoid feeding them, as they are wild animals. Reddit

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. Reddit Observing these animals in their natural habitat is a privilege, so practice responsible wildlife viewing etiquette.