Hiking Lake 22 in Washington

I loved Lake 22 so much, I hiked it twice while I was in Seattle for the summer. It’s up in the North Cascades, inside Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, and makes for a solid day trip if you need a break from the city. Easy to get to, not too intense (thank the gods), and the lake at the top is absolutely stunning! Here’s what to know before you go:

• Distance: 5.4 miles out and back
• Duration: 2 – 4 hours
• Difficulty level: moderate
• Incline: 1500ft elevation gain

Location

• Approximately 50 miles northeast of Seattle and will take about an hour.
• It’s right off the Mountain Loop Highway, which makes it an easy go-to for a day hike.

Lake 22 Hike Trailhead

• There is a small parking lot, but if you do not have a permit (most locals will) you might have to park on the side of the road. If it’s a weekend, go early. The parking lot gets packed quick.
• Restrooms are available at the trailhead.

Lake 22 Hiking Trail:

• The trail to Lake 22 is well-maintained and moderately challenging, with a mix of old-growth forest, switchbacks, and rocky stretches.
• There are a couple of stream crossings and some nice views of the surrounding mountains as you make your way up.

Scenic Highlights:

• There’s some variety on the trail—dense trees, a few wildflowers if you’re lucky, and clear views of the Cascades once you climb out of the trees.
• Lake 22 is surrounded by rugged cliffs, leftover snow, and clear water that mirrors the peaks around it.

Wildlife and Flora:

• Lake 22 is great for spotting wildlife (though, let’s be honest, most of Washington is). You might see birds, marmots, snakes, and once in a while, a mountain goat.
• Depending on the season, you may encounter vibrant wildflowers along the trail.

Seasonal Considerations:

• The trail is typically accessible from late spring to early fall, with summer being the most popular time for hiking.
• During the winter, the trail may be covered in snow, making it perfect for snowshoeing.
• Search the US Forest Service website here for any news and updates about lake 22 hike.

Leave No Trace:

• Be sure follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the fragile alpine environment. This includes packing out all waste and respecting the flora and fauna. If you are unfamiliar about the Leave No Trace Principles, you can find them here.

Pro Tip

• Don’t forget to bring a swimsuit if you are hiking lake 22 on a hot summer day! It’s a wonderful experience.