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Recreation Region: Snoqualmie Ranger District

Hester Lake Trail 1005.1

From Dutch Miller Gap Trailhead (at Dingford Creek) follow Dingford Creek Trail 1005 into Alpine Lakes Wilderness for three miles to its junction with Hester Lake Trail.

The trail to Hester Lake is primitive and poorly maintained, passing through wetlands with interesting plant communities. Be prepared for lots of mud on your boots! From the junction on the Dingford Creek Trail 1005, the Hester Lake Trail continues at a gradual grade. You will immediately cross two forks of Dingford Creek, possibly getting your feet wet. Just beyond Dingford Creek the trail may be hard to find due to washouts. Climb gradually for about two miles then switchback to a bench below Mt. Price. Hester Lake sits in this narrow valley near several campsites.

Washington Trails Association Hiking Guide and Trip Reports 

Specific Trail Information

Trail Number

1005.1

Trail Type

Standard/Terra Trail — A trail that has a surface consisting predominantly of the ground and that is designed and managed to accommodate use on that surface.

General Information

A vaild Recreation Pass is required at Dutch Miller Gap trailhead.

Wilderness regulations apply within Alpine Lakes Wilderness . The trail is closed to motorized vehicles, bicycles and stock. Dogs must be on a leash.

Snoqualmie Ranger Station sign in front of District Office

Address: 902 S.E. North Bend Way, Bldg 1 North Bend, WA 98045
Phone: (425) 888-1421
Hours: Open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Closed Wednesdays. (Closed on federal holidays)

Getting There

Directions

From North Bend, Washington take I-90 east to exit #34. Take exit #34 and turn north on 468th Avenue. In 0.6 mile turn right onto SE Middle Fork Forest Service Road #56. Stay on Forest Service Road #56 for 12.2 miles; turn right to continue on Forest Service Road #56. In 1.0 mile Road #56 turns left. Continue for approximately 5.0 miles to the Dutch Miller Gap trailhead at Dingford Creek on the left side (parking is on the right side).

Hike the Dingford Creek Trail 1005 for 3.0 miles to the junction, where the Hester Lake Trail goes to the right.

Nearby Recreation Sites

Recreation Opportunities

Last updated July 15, 2025