Beaver Lake Trail #629

Highlights: Mountain views, old growth Forest, lake

Distance: 3.0 miles one-way

Beginning Elevation : 900 feet

Ending Elevation: 1200 feet

Difficulty level: Easiest

Map(s): Green Trails #111 Sloan Peak

Visitor Use: Low

SUMMARY:

This trail is an easy hike designed to view the work of beavers or just enjoy the serenity of the river and forest. The entire trail is along an old railroad grade, so watch for the last of the decaying trestles along the way.

At 1.5 miles one can cross the bridge between the ponds. This is a haven for wildlife, especially the busy beaver. Approach the ponds quietly and you might see mallards, wood ducks, great blue herons, or other wildlife.

The trail continues on through old-growth timber, passing through cedar groves that are hundreds of years old. In 1980 the river changed course, so where the trail comes back to the river, it is actually a slough. If fishing is what you are after, cross the stream and go through a forested area, coming out at the river.

Continuing on the trail, you leave the river and will pass the site of the Sauk Ranger Station, which was built in 1916. Pack animals used to carry supplies to this point until the railroad came along in 1926. The cedar tree to your left (just before starting up the hill) served as a fire lookout. The trail ends on the road near Lyle Creek, after climbing a couple hundred feet.

TRAILHEAD ACCESS:From the Darrington Ranger Station, take the Mountain Loop Highway #20 along the west side of the Sauk River. Follow this road 10 miles, going past the Sauk River crossing. Just past the bridge (on the right) is the road to the trailhead. The road is 0.2 miles in length and is signed.

Northwest Forest Pass required to park: Yes

TRAILGUIDE

Best Seasons: Summer/Fall

AREA

Darrington, Mountain Loop Highway

RANGER STATION (NEAREST)

1405 Emmens St. Darrington, WA 98241

Open Monday - Friday 8 am - 4:30 pm(360) 436-1155

Verlot PublicService Center

Open Thursday - Monday8 am - 4:30 pm (360) 691-7791

TRAIL REVIEW submit your review

Notice: Hiking in the backcountry can be dangerous. Information on this website comes from a variety of sources. You have to be responsible for using good common sense and researching trails carefully. Things change constantly in the outdoors.

Use caution while hiking so you can enjoy it safely. Don't get in over your head. A call to the ranger station and avalanche hotline(winter) are highly recommended. Bring the ten essentials and make sure someone knows where you are going and expect to be back.