Lizard & Lily Lakes with North Butte Viewpoint
Details
With the newly improved weather forecasted for this Saturday, let's take advantage of it and visit Lizard Lake, North Butte, and Lily Lake. This will be a scenic loop hike totaling about 7.5 miles and 1,350' of elevation gain. North Butte has a spectacular view without the crowds of Oyster Dome; see the photo above.
Overall, it's a moderate hike, with only one section of about a mile of sustained, uphill hiking plus a few shorter uphill sections. There's also an (optional) short, rocky climb to the highest viewpoint at North Butte. We'll plan on a lunch stop at the lower & more accessible view spot, as well as snack and conversation breaks elsewhere. Even on a weekend, there's not much traffic on this loop.
Pace will be moderate to medium, not fast, and the group needs to stay together. Please be capable of a hiking pace of about 1.5-2 MPH over this terrain and distance. We will take breaks at the lakes and the viewpoint to enjoy the views, so the end time is an estimate. Don't hesitate to sign up on the waitlist if it shows as full, as people sometimes cancel, or group size may be adjusted.
Note that we are not guides or medical professionals. You are responsible for yourself and any guests you bring. Please carry the ten essentials: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ten_Essentials
Distance: About 7-1/2 miles
Elevation Gain (cumulative): About 1,350'
Parking Pass: Discover Pass Required. Note that there are no provisions to buy one at the trail head!
Map: Chuckanut Recreation Area by Square One
Directions from I-5 Exit #240: Head West about 1/2 mile on Lake Samish Road. Turn Left (sharp) on Barrell Springs Road and follow 7/10 mile.
Turn Right on 5-mile Blanchard Hill Trail/Lily Lake Road (dirt road w/stop sign and a brown with white lettering sign "Blanchard Forest Block".)
Follow past a lower trailhead with parking area and restrooms. Continue STRAIGHT (passing the turnoff on the left for Samish Overlook) to a large parking area at the end of the road. I emphasize: Do NOT turn left, and do NOT go to Samish Overlook. Total mileage on the dirt road is about 1.8 miles. Please open map link for a visual. On Google Maps, it's titled as the Upper Blanchard Mountain Trailhead, or Blanchard Mountain Trail Upper Parking Lot. Some guides may call it the Upper Lizard/Lily Lakes Trailhead.
Please don't park in the area at the north end of the parking lot that is signed for horse trailer parking only.
MAP LINK:
If inputting info. into Google Maps yourself, type in, "Blanchard Mountain Trail Upper Parking Lot." Allow yourself at least 10 minutes from the exit at I-5 to get to the trailhead.
This is a dog-friendly event for friendly dogs!
Lizard & Lily Lakes with North Butte Viewpoint