Necklace Valley | Alpine Lakes Wilderness

The Alpine Lakes Wilderness, a rugged area nestled in the Central Cascades, features an incredible landscape of staggering immensity - Over 700 glacial lakes, shimmering mountain ponds, jagged glacier-carved peaks, dense forests, diverse ecosystems and vast expanses of untouched wilderness, where time stands still!

The Necklace Valley Trail winds through the central-western section of this wilderness, guiding hikers to a series of stunning alpine lakes named after precious gems. The journey begins with a gentle 5-mile stretch, meandering alongside the East Fork Foss River through lush second-growth forest. The plan is to follow this serene path to the river crossing, then turn back, making for a relaxing, beginner-friendly adventure.

Those hikers who are more, um, vertically inclined, can press on beyond the river crossing, ascending toward the dazzling alpine jewels — Jade, Emerald, Opal, and Locket Lakes — strung together like a necklace, each offering its own pristine beauty nestled in the rugged landscape.

Hike Data
Length: 10 miles roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 1,000 feet
Elevation Range: 1,613' to 2,187'
Difficulty: Easy
Route Type: Out & Back
Tread Type: Soft Forested Trail, Water Crossings
Location: Central Cascades > Stevens Pass - West

Trailhead | Meetup Location
Necklace Valley Trailhead
Trail # 1062
National Forest Road 68
Skykomish, WA 98288
GPS: 47.66500, -121.28827

Schedule
7:00 AM - Arrive at the Trailhead, Meet and Greet
7:30 AM - Begin the Hike, Boots on the Trail
12:30 PM - Back at the Trailhead

Estimated Hiking Time: 5 hours, including breaks
Moderate Pace

Links
Trail Map
Trail Weather
WTA
AllTrails
Day Hike Packing List
Ten Essential Items

Carpool | Parking Permit
We will meet directly at the trailhead per the schedule above. Hikers can self-organize carpools from any location, as needed. Use the Messaging system and comments below to coordinate rides. A Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful Interagency Pass is required to park a vehicle at this trailhead.

Getting There
From the Seattle area, drive east on U.S. Highway 2 toward Stevens Pass. After passing the Skykomish Ranger Station on the left (Vault toilet available here), continue another 0.5 mile and turn right (south) onto Foss River Road NE (Forest Road 68). The clearly marked parking lot and trailhead will be on your left at 4.2 miles. Please note that there are no facilities at this trailhead.

The last 3 miles of road NF-68 leading to the trailhead are unpaved gravel, with some potholes, ruts, and washboards - However, any vehicle can make it to the trailhead with slow, controlled driving on this section. A high-clearance vehicle is not necessary.

Disclaimer
I am not a guide. I am just going on a hike and inviting others to join me. You are solely responsible for your own safety and should be self-sufficient. Assess your abilities before signing up. Hosts and Organizers are indemnified.

RSVP Etiquette
Please read the entire Event Description above and browse the links provided. RSVP to this event only if you are committed to attending. Late cancellations and No-Shows are noted and will impact your ability to attend future events with us.