Rachel Lake Trail has a fairly gentle grade for the first 3 miles as it follows the north side of Box Canyon Creek along the valley bottom. The trail passes through old-growth forest and brushy avalanche chutes. At the head of the valley, the trail begins a steep 1-mile climb to Rachel Lake. From the flat bench around Rachel, the trail climbs approximately another mile to the Rampart Lakes basin. Due to the large number of people that visit this area, campfires are prohibited within 0.5 mile of Rachel Lake and everywhere above 5000 feet. At Ramparts (and at other subalpine and alpine areas), the plant life is fragile and has suffered damage from hikers. In order to repair past damage, revegetation and rehabilitation efforts continue in this area as funding allows and with the help of volunteers. You can help this project by staying on the main trails and resting only on rocks and logs adjacent to the trail. Your cooperation can help preserve the health and remarkable alpine beauty of this area.
At a Glance
Fees
$5/vehicle/day or Recreation Pass required at trailhead. Day passes available at the trailhead. Discover Pass not valid on National Forest land.
Permit Info:
Wilderness permits are required. The self-issuing permits are free and are available at trailheads and Forest Service Ranger Stations.
From I-90, take Exit 62 west of Cle Elum, onto paved Road 49 to Lake Kachess and follow it to the “T” junction near Kachess Campground. Turn left onto Forest Road 4930 and stay on it for about 5 miles up Box Canyon Creek to the trailhead.
Parking:
Pit toilets at trailhead and parking for 40+ vehicles.
HIDE
