Goat Lake Trail - Alpine Lake and waterfalls!
Details
This is a beautiful hike on the popular Goat Lake Trail, a 10.4-mile loop near Darrington with incredible views of the creek, waterfalls, N. Cadet Peak, the surrounding mountains, and alpine lake.
Near the end, the trail can be tricky to navigate by the waterfall, so downloading an offline map is helpful. Dogs are welcome on leash.
Goat Lake Trailhead (Coordinates: 48.05343,-121.4126)
Driving directions from Wilburton P&R
Hike Info
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 10.4 miles, roundtrip, out and back
Elevation Gain: 1,400 feet
Highest Elevation: 3161 ft.
Location: FS-4080, Darrington, WA 98241
Conditions
Recent trip reports list some fallen trees, muddy areas, some bugs, and some steep sections. Note that the rugged dirt road to the trailhead has potholes, and parking is limited.
Parking Permit
For parking, a Northwest Forest Pass (or America the Beautiful Pass) is required. A NW Forest day pass is $5.
https://www.wta.org/go-outside/passes
Carpooling
We will meet at Wilburton P&R and arrange for carpools.
Riders MUST reimburse drivers for gas. Reimburse a minimum of $20 for three riders, $30 for two riders, and $40 for one rider... Cash is preferred, or Venmo or Zelle.
You are also welcome to join us at the trail!
What to Bring
Athletic clothing & rain gear
Hiking shoes/boots
Water, snacks & Lunch
Bug Spray
Sun protection
Ten hiking essentials
Schedule
07:00 AM – Meet at Wilburton P&R (carpool assignments)
07:15 AM – Drive to trailhead - Feel free to have a coffee stop
09:30 AM – Arrive at Goal Lake Trailhead (FS Road 4080)
09:45 AM – Begin hike to Goat Lake
12:30 PM – Lunch break at the lake (30 min – enjoy views & photos!)
01:00 PM – Start return hike
03:30 PM – Back at trailhead
04:00 PM – Depart for Wilburton P&R
~05:45 PM – Back at the P&R
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.