Blue Lake near Diablo and Ross Lake in North Cascades
Details
We will be hiking out-and-back to the gorgeous Blue Lake, in the North Cascades, near Washington Pass. On the way back we will stop at the amazing Diablo Lake Overlook as well as cross Diablo Dam for views along the lake.
On the trail we'll see old growth forest, wildflowers, huckleberries, mountain views, the beautiful crystal blue alpine lake and shaded forest. And look closely to see Cutthroat Trout in the lake.
This hike is moderate with a roundtrip distance of 4.6 miles and ~1000 ft. elevation gain. We will also hike another 0.2 miles for the mountain view loop at the end of the trail.
We'll be making friends, staying fit, being polite and having fun!
We will first meet at the Wilburton P&R. Carpooling is encouraged but you are welcome to meet us at the trailhead (48.5192, -120.6744):
Blue Lake Trailhead
We'll be making friends, staying fit, and having fun!
Hike Info
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 4.8 miles roundtrip, out and back
Elevation Gain: ~1000 feet
Highest Elevation: ~6300 ft.
Location: Near Washington Pass on the North Cascades Highway (20)
Road: Highway all the way
Parking Permit
For parking, a Northwest Forest Pass (or America the Beautiful Pass) is required. A NW Forest day pass is $5 - see WTA Passes.
Attendance
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. It's a 2-hour drive each way, so reimburse a minimum of $45 if one rider, $25 for two riders, and $20 for three riders. Cash is preferred, or Venmo or Zelle.
What to Bring
Athletic clothing & rain gear
Hiking shoes/boots
Water, snacks & lunch
Swim Suit
Sun protection
Bug spray
Ten hiking essentials
Schedule
7:00 am: Meet at the Wilburton P&R (OK to bring morning coffee and breakfast)
7:10 am: Drive to Blue Lake Trailhead, with a rest stop along the way.
~ 10:30 am: Arrive at trailhead
~ 3-4 hours of hiking with stops for food, photos
~ 2:30 pm: Back at trailhead
-> Stop at Diablo Lake Overlook and Diablo Dam on the way back
-> Stop for food / coffee on way back (optional)
~ 7:00 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. You agree to release, hold harmless, and indemnify the hike host from any claims, liabilities, or expenses arising from any injury or damage. Always be aware of your own physical abilities and go on this hike prepared.
Blue Lake near Diablo and Ross Lake in North Cascades