High Lakes Trail #1012

Highlights: Mountain views, Forest, Lakes and Meadows

Distance: 3.9 miles on Trail #1012 and 4.0 miles on Trail #1013 one-way

Beginning Elevation : 4100 feet

Ending Elevation: 3900 feet

Difficulty level: More Difficult

Map(s): Green Trails #207

Visitor Use: Heavy

SUMMARY:

The High Lakes Trail winds its way through subalpine meadows and stands of trees. The two mile route from Snow Lake to Gem Lake is extremely well traveled and can be very muddy in places. Use extreme caution not to further the destruction of this over-used high country. Camp and travel only on pre-established trails and campsites. Campfires are prohibited within 0.25 mile of Gem Lake in an attempt to restore the damage imposed upon the vegetation in this area. Another two miles beyond Gem Lake the trail drops over the back side of a saddle to Wildcat Lake, a good destination for those seeking more solitude.

TRAILHEAD ACCESS:Exit #52 from I-90. Turn north off the exit ramp and drive under the overpass. In 0.25 mile take the second right towards the Alpental Ski Area and park in the large lot to the left of the gate.

Hike the Snow Lake Trail #1013, leaving from the east side of the lot, for three miles until the junction with Rock Creek trail #1013.1 to the right, and the High Lakes Trail #1012 taking off from the left.

The trail can also be accessed via the Middle Fork Road #56 and the Rock Creek Trail.

Northwest Forest Pass required to park: Yes

TRAILGUIDE

Best Seasons: Summer/Fall

AREA

I-90 Snoqualmie Pass

RANGER STATION (NEAREST)

North Bend Office42404 SE North Bend WayNorth Bend, WA 98045 Open Monday - Friday 8 am - 4:30 pm (425) 888-1421

Snoqualmie PassVisitor Center Open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekendFriday - Monday8:30 am - 4:00 pm (425) 434-6111

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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.