Alpine Lakes,Beautiful Fall Colors! Hike Lake Valhalla and Mt. McCausland
Details
Lake Valhalla and Mt. McCausland are popular hiking destinations located in the Central Cascades of Washington State. This hike offers stunning views of alpine lakes, lush forests, and the surrounding mountains. At the summit you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including Glacier Peak and Mount Rainier on a clear day. Fall colors are peaking this weekend ! Weather is awesome, clear day with high in 80's. Don't miss out. Join us for a beautiful day hike and make new friends !
Here's an overview of the hike:
Location: Lake Valhalla and Mt. McCausland are situated in the Stevens Pass area of the Central Cascades, which is easily accessible from Seattle and the surrounding areas.
Distance: The total round-trip distance for this hike is approximately 7 miles (11.3 kilometers).
Difficulty: This hike is considered moderate-hard in difficulty, with some elevation gain (~ 2000 ft) and some rocky terrain.
Trailhead: The trailhead for Lake Valhalla and Mt. McCausland can be reached by taking US Highway 2. The trailhead is located at the Smith Brook Road (Forest Road 6700) parking area, which is a few miles west of Stevens Pass.
Hiking Route:
- Start at the Trailhead: Begin your hike at the Smith Brook Road parking area.
- Smithbrook Trail: The trail starts with a gentle climb through the forest along Smithbrook Trail. You'll gradually gain elevation as you hike through dense woods.
- Lake Valhalla Junction: After approximately 2.5 miles, you'll reach a junction where you can choose to visit Lake Valhalla or continue to Mt. McCausland. If you want to see the lake, take a left at this junction, and you'll reach Lake Valhalla shortly. It's a beautiful alpine lake nestled in the mountains.
- Mt. McCausland: To reach Mt. McCausland, continue straight at the junction and follow the signs. The trail becomes steeper and rockier as you ascend the mountain.
- Summit: Once you reach the summit of Mt. McCausland, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including Glacier Peak and Mount Rainier on a clear day.
- Return: After enjoying the views, retrace your steps back to the trailhead. in the morning for a Washington classic and make new hiking friends!
Please indicate if you are willing to drive and how many can you fit.
CARPOOL is encouraged ! Please arrive at P&R by 6:45 AM, we will be building the carpools there and start sharp at 7:00 AM.
Parking/Entry fee per car: American Beautiful park pass or Northwest Forest Pass, Day pass $5
(write info on a paper and put in the car/Print out at home, https: //www.wta.org/go-outside/passes)
Things to Pack: Bring hiking poles and boots, a hat, waterproof jacket, warm clothing with layers, extra pair of socks, change of clothes, water, snacks, etc. We will not be stopping for breakfast, please have your breakfast at home and pack lunch for the hike.
If you plan on being a rider please bring $25 for your driver towards gas, park entrance fees etc. ( Pay your Driver when you enter their car !)
Bring a plastic bag to place your boots in after the hike.
Important: You and yourself alone are responsible for your own safety. Please know your abilities before signing up.
After the hike we will stop off at a local restaurant support small business*
RSVP ETIQUETTE: Please be mindful of your RSVP commitments as we have limited space. While we do our best to arrange carpools at the P&R, it's not always guaranteed. A no-show can affect someone else's chance to attend and yours for future events. Thanks for your understanding!
Remember if you miss this event. You'll miss an awesome experience .
*********By signing up for this event, you affirm that you and your guests alone are responsible for your own safety.
You and your guests attend at your own risk, and that Hosts and Organizers are indemnified.**********