Lake Ingalls – Goats & Epic Mountain Views!

Let's tackle one of Washington's most iconic hikes in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness! With towering views of Mount Stuart, and frequent mountain goat sightings, this trail is a PNW classic for good reason. The lake is still partially frozen right now, making for some stunning photo ops. We'll push to the lake and explore Headlight Basin.

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📍 Hike Details (from AllTrails)
Trail: Lake Ingalls via Ingalls Way Trail
Distance: ~9.1 miles
Elevation Gain: ~2,857 ft
Route Type: Out & back
Estimated time: 6–6.5 hours
Pass required: Northwest Forest Pass
⚠️ Trail notes:

• First half is gradual and well-maintained, then it gets steep toward Ingalls Pass
• Some snowfields still remain — microspikes are recommended (but many have managed without)
• The left trail at the pass is more maintained; the right trail leads to campsites and is more rugged (requires route-finding skills)
• Bugs are starting to come out — bring bug spray!
• Muddy sections possible in the basin (waterproof shoes recommended)
• No dogs allowed on this trail

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🚗 Schedule & Meeting
7:00 AM – Meet at Green Lake Park & Ride (NE 65th St & I-5, Seattle)
Carpool and depart promptly
Quick stop at Cle Lum Safeway – bathrooms / snacks / coffee
10:00 AM – Arrive at trailhead / start hiking 🥾
4:30 PM – Back to cars
7:30 PM – Estimated return to Green Lake P&R (later if we stop for food)

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🎒 What to Bring
✅ Hiking boots (waterproof recommended — snow/mud sections)
✅ Microspikes (suggested for snowfield crossings)
✅ Trekking poles — helpful for stability on snow and steep sections
✅ 2–3 liters of water (lots of exposed trail — bring plenty)
✅ Lunch + snacks
✅ Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses (high exposure above treeline)
✅ Layers (can be windy/cool near the lake)
✅ Download offline map (AllTrails+ recommended — route-finding can be tricky near the lake)
✅ Bug spray (reviews mention active bugs already)
✅ Change of shoes/clothes for post-hike comfort

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💰 Cost Sharing
$30 per person to cover gas and vehicle wear & tear. Cash or Venmo.
Northwest Forest Pass required if parking in the lot — or we can park along the road (please don't block emergency access).

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🐐 Trail Highlights

• Mount Stuart dominating the skyline— Gothic, monolithic, and otherworldly
• Mountain goat sightings — recent reviews mention curious goats following hikers!
• Snow-covered lake with incredible reflective views

📸 Photo credit: Hon Chan

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⚠️ Disclaimer
This is a group-organized hike, NOT a guided tour. The host is not a professional guide, trip leader, or outdoor expert. They are simply organizing a gathering of fellow hikers and are participating themselves. You are solely responsible for your own safety, preparedness, and well-being throughout the entire event.

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⛰️ Let's chase that alpine lake! 🥾

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