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Details
Distance
7.42 miles
Elevation Gain
3540 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Features
Lake
Forest
Easy Parking
Dog Friendly
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Track
About this place
Added by Outbound
Make sure to bring your camera (or phone) for a magical shot of stunning Blanca Lake in the Cascades.
Although the drive to the trailhead is mostly over gravel roads, Blanca Lake is a very popular hike. The drive is better for cars with clearance and AWD capabilities.
The trail gets right down to it gaining almost 3,000 feet in the first 3 miles. But don't worry, the hard work is well worth the reward at the end. Keep pushing forward and make sure to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated (and maybe a snack while you relax before coming back down).
Add this to the top of your list of beautiful alpine lakes in the Pacific Northwest. If possible, try to head there on a weekday to avoid the crowds.
This trail is dog-friendly, and on-leash.
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Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and be sure to follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly.
Community
Reviews
Photos
Check-ins
Nix Kinney
8/22/2017
Persist! The Lake Will Reward You Ten-Fold
Beware, the trailhead has been viciously washed out, which adds a few extra miles to an already demanding hike, so only the brave and ...
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Bridget Burke
7/5/2016
Incredibly Beautiful Turquoise Alpine Lake
The access road is closed indefinitely so this adds an extra 4 miles round trip to the already challenging hike. But, the hike was ...
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Kristen Sinteral
5/11/2016
That water...
When you turn the corner and take in your first views of Blanca Lake, you kind of want to stop right in your tracks. ...
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Brandon Baker
3/30/2016
One of the best spots in WA...in my opinion.
My first backpack trip was here, still one of my favorites! One of the best spots in WA...in my opinion.
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f51402f15f6475e595bd422fce8316db
5/13/2015
I'd recommend bringing some brews for the top :) the view is to die for.
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Jen L
11/5/2014
Crossed the log jam and did an overnight next to this beauty of a lake. SUPER CROWDED on the weekends. Go on the weekday. Trust me.
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