Blue Lake Trailhead

Map and profile

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This trailhead gives access to Blue Lake trail. This trailhead is located directly off of North Cascades Highway (State Highway 20). The parking area is paved with about 20 designated parking spots, including one accessible parking spot. The parking is often full. If you choose to park outside the designated parking area, park outside the fog line along the highway. There is an accessible vault toilet.

At a Glance

Current Conditions:	Current conditions information
Area Amenities:	Interpretive Site, Picnic tables, Toilets, Parking
Fees:	A recreation pass is required. (A $5/vehicle/day Northwest Forest Pass can be purchased from a self-pay station provided at the trailhead).
Open Season:	July
Usage:	Heavy
Best Season:	July-Sept
Busiest Season:	July-Sept
Restrictions:	Trail closed to pack and saddle stock, motorized and mechanized travel. No overnight camping within 0.25 mile of the lake.
Closest Towns:	Winthrop, WA
Water:	No
Restroom:	Vault Toilet (1)
Passes:	A recreation pass is required. (A $5/vehicle/day Northwest Forest Pass can be purchased from a self-pay station provided at the trailhead).
Operated By:	Forest Service
Information Center:	Methow Valley Ranger District

General Information

Directions:

From Winthrop, WA, drive west on Highway 20 approximately 31.3 miles to milepost 162. The trailhead is 1/2 mile past milepost 162 on the south side of the Highway 20.

Accessibility:

Accessible vault toilet

Parking:

The parking area is paved with about 20 designated parking spots, including one accessible parking spot. The parking is often full. If you choose to park outside the designated parking area, park outside the fog line along the highway.

Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Activities

Rock Climbing

Liberty Bell Mountain and the Early Winters Spires are popular rock climbing areas.

Lake and Pond Fishing

Lake fishing at Blue Lake.

Day Hiking

Viewing Wildlife

Mountain Goats are sometimes seen near Blue Lake.

Viewing Plants

Golden alpine larch and red huckleberry bushes provide stunning fall colors against against a blue alpine lake surrounded by tall rugged mountain spires.