What we’re about
Hike the PNW, Enjoy finding new hikes and re-discovering old favorites.
Upcoming events (1)
See all- Rachel Lake - Alpine Beauty, Explore explore!Wilburton Park and Ride, Bellevue, WA
We will be hiking to the beautiful Rachel Lake located within the Alpine Lakes Wilderness near Snoqualmie Pass. Roundtrip distance is about 8 miles, 1600 ft. elevation gain. This is a moderate / hard hike.
The deep forest is amazing with wildflowers, creeks, waterfalls and lots of adventure!! There can be water crossings in a few places where a creek runs through the trail, so be prepared with water shoes or extra socks. Explore as you climb up meandering rocky dry creek beds, so be sure to have a downloaded map or hike with someone who does. The trail is challenging to follow for a little while without a map.
At the lake enjoy your lunch, stunning views, and take a dip in the cool deep blue water. Bring your swimsuit! You may optionally hike up to Ramparts Lake as well and get more incredible views.
We'll be making friends, staying fit, and having fun!
We will first meet at the Wilburton P&R. Carpooling is encouraged but if you don't you are welcome to meet us at the parking lot here:
Rachel Lake Trailhead (coordinates: 47.40094, -121.28337).
Hike Info
Difficulty: Moderate/Hard
Length: 8 miles roundtrip, out and back (8.7 miles with Rampart Lake)
Elevation Gain: 1600 feet (2500 ft. with Rampart Lake)
Highest Elevation: 4600 ft. (5100 at Rampart Lake)
Location: Just past Snoqualmie Pass, near Keechelus Lake.
Road: Highway and then a gravel road.Conditions
No snow on trail, but muddy and wet and full water in spots. Bring poles and weatherproof shoes.Parking Permit
For parking, a Northwest Forest Pass (or America the Beautiful Pass) is required. A NW Forest day pass is $5 - see:
https://www.wta.org/go-outside/passesAttendance
We try to keep our group size to around 10 - 20 (more or less) as a courtesy to other hikers on the trail, and to reduce crowds and cars in the parking lot. The Going list may have a larger number to accommodate no-shows.Folks on the Wait list may not attend until they are moved to the Going list. When folks drop from the Going list, people are added from the Wait list.
Carpooling
We will limit total attendees while drivers are selected from the Wait list. Drivers will be placed first as Going, and then we will fill with passengers as space allows, so everyone who comes to the P&R has a ride to the trail.Riders MUST reimburse drivers for gas. Reimburse a minimum of $40 if one rider, $20 for two riders, $15 for three riders. Cash is preferred, or Venmo or Zelle.
What to Bring
Athletic clothing & rain gear
Swimming suit!
Hiking shoes/boots - Watershoes or Waterproof or extra socks!
Water, snacks & Lunch
Sun protection
Bug spray! - Reports of bugs
Ten hiking essentialsSchedule
7:10 am: Meet at the Wilburton P&R (OK to bring morning coffee and breakfast).
7:20 am: Drive to hike parking lot
~ 8:40 am: Arrive at Trailhead
~ 6-7 hours of hiking with stops for food, photos
~ 3-4 pm: Back at trailhead
-> Stop for food / coffee on way back (optional)
~ 5:30 pm: Arrive back at Wilburton P&R (later if stopping)Attendees: Be sure to update your status if things change so others can attend.
Disclaimer: When you RSVP and attend this hike you are accepting that you are fully aware that you are responsible for your own safety. Always be aware of your own physical abilities and go on this hike prepared.
