Anderson and Watson Lakes With a Twist

Let's hike Anderson & Watson Lakes! The twist that I mentioned is to find the boot pack trail to the Upper Anderson Lakes and visit them along the way. As long as the trail isn't too overgrown, we'll add this side trip. If we can't make it to the upper lakes, the other ones are still gorgeous.

From WTA:
This trail features plenty of variety, with destinations spaced perfectly for families or first-time backpackers. Beautiful hemlock forest, meadows dotted with wildflowers, gleaming lakes, mountain views, juicy berries and excellent camping are all available. Wait until later in the hiking season though, as this area is known for its bugs.

Begin hiking through a beautiful forest of second-growth hemlock. Boardwalks help keep your feet dry and add interest for younger hikers. After approximately a mile of hiking, arrive in a pretty meadow, where you'll find a signed junction for Anderson Butte.

Continue right, through the meadow where several varieties of wildflowers bloom in August. Cross a small stream, and climb gradually up the meadow. Look behind you periodically, there is an excellent view of Mount Baker.

At the top of the meadow, enter a beautiful forest draped in moss. Descend steeply, taking note that you’ll have to climb this on the way back to your car. At least the trail is well-shaded. At 1.5 miles from the trailhead, arrive at another meadow and another junction.

The trail to the right heads half a mile downhill to Lower Anderson Lake, a small lake surrounded by grassy meadows and an interesting wall of rocky gray pinnacles. Camping and a backcountry privy are available here.

The trail to the left continues 1.5 miles to Watson Lakes. It climbs briefly and then drops down to the lakes, crossing into the Noisy-Diobsud Wilderness along the way.

Distance: 8 miles (estimate)
Elevation Gain: 1,800 (estimated cumulative gain)
High Point: 5,100'
Dogs: This is a dog-friendly hike for friendly dogs
Parking Pass: Northwest Forest Pass (or American the Beautiful, Senior...)
WTA Link: https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/anderson-and-watson-lakes

We'll meet at the West Ferry Street Park & Ride in Sedro Woolley for carpooling (map here) at 8:00am and the trailhead (map here) at approximately 10am. I'm hoping everyone will be able to meet us here vs. some at the trailhead. With the possibility of side trail exploration and the rough road conditions, please note that the end time is an estimate.

The event start time is set for the park & ride lot, because I don't know exactly what time we'll arrive at the trailhead and start hiking. Please let me know if you have any questions. Note that the park & ride lot isn't marked with a sign. You enter the lot from West Ferry Street, just south of the roundabout at Cook and Ferry. The dirt road to the trailhead is reported to be in rough condition, so I'm going to recommend vehicles with decent suspension and ground clearance. As of now, I have room for one additional person in my truck.

Disclaimer: We are not professional hiking guides or medical professionals. We are volunteers. You alone are 100% responsible for your own comfort and safety. By attending this hike you agree to these terms and do not hold hike organizer(s) liable for injuries and/or medical issues during or after this event. Please carry the ten essentials: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ten_Essentials