Details
Features
About this place
Heather Lake is a great alternative that is both slightly shorter and less strenuous than nearby Lake 22, but still packs a punch as far as a workout goes. Views of Mount Pilchuck are also equally spectacular.
The trail takes you on a gradual climb up to Heather Lake with beautiful second growth to admire along the way. The trail can be very wet and muddy with many tree roots to catch your toes, so make sure to wear a sturdy pair of tennis shoes or hiking shoes. Dogs are permitted on this trail on-leash.
Make sure to notice the huge rotting stumps with the springboard notches alongside the trail; springboards were boards placed in tree trunks for the loggers to stand on as they used a large crosscut saw to take down the tree.
THE HIKE
The trail starts with multiple switchbacks before evening out along an old logging road. After the trail breaks off from the logging road, the trail once again begins to switchback with an increase in elevation. It is along this part of the trail where you’ll need to make sure to watch you steps as the trail is covered in tree roots and many large rocks. There is also a lot of water runoff along the trail so the trail may be very wet from this point on.
At around the 1.2 mile mark, you will begin to see snow along the trail, this is also where you will stop hiking and start ice skating if you do not come prepared. There are many pockets of ice along this portion of the trail. The trail remains to steadily incline for another 0.4 mile until it again evens out. The final part of the hike should be on compact or freshly fallen snow until you reach the lake.
Find a great spot along the shore of the lake to take a break, eat a snack and take in the views of the surrounding mountain peaks.
CAMPING
Opportunities for camping are limited -- please only camp in established campsites. For current conditions, contact the Darrington Ranger District office at 360-436-1155 or Verlot Public Service Center at 360-691-7791. You can also visit the Forest Service website for more information.
GETTING THERE
After exiting Mountain Loop Hwy, follow the gravel road up 1.1 miles before you reach the parking lot. WATCH FOR POTHOLES! The trailhead can be found to the left of the small parking lot. After filling out your group information in the small stand, you can begin your trek up to Heather Lake.
Leave No Trace
