Sprite Lake via Paddy-Go-Easy Pass Trail

The Trail

Begin backpacking the Paddy-Go-Easy Pass Trail (#1595) through dense spruce forests with riparian undergrowth. The trail will switchback and climb steadily across dry meadows filled with wildflowers, and you'll have increasing views westward of Mount Daniel, Mount Hinman, and Cathedral Rock.

Soon Mount Rainier will become visible on the horizon to the south as the way flattens and you approach Paddy-Go-Easy Pass, which you'll reach (elevation: 6100 feet) after three miles and 2700 feet of elevation gain. While catching your breath, be sure to savor your views of the Cradle, French Ridge Peaks, Harding Mountain, and Dragontail Peak to the southeast.

Traverse southeast following cairns and braided cat-trails along the ridge to Sprite Lake. Make camp along the shores of the lake or amidst the crags surrounding the lake basin. For additional exploration and views, ascend to point 6566 for panoramic vistas of the region and the lake.

Getting There
From Roslyn head north for about 15 miles on Salmon La Sac Road. Veer right where the pavement ends onto Cle Elum Valley Rd (FS 4330) for an additional nine miles. Locate the Paddy-Go-Easy Pass trailhead (elevation: 3400 feet) roughly 0.7 miles past the Fish Lake Guard Station and load your pack for your adventure: get ready to ascend a pristine alpine ridge in the Wenatchee Mountains.