Melakwa Lakes via Denny Creek Trail

This hike has it all: old-growth forests, rivers, waterfalls, alpine lakes, views, peaks, and so on. The hike starts from near Denny Creek Campground in between the separate I-90 viaducts. Almost immediately, you will cross over a walk bridge over Denny Creek's waterfalls, and then eventually under the westbound I-90 viaduct, which, from the old-growth forest underneath, is a cool, almost-post-apocalyptic site. Keep following the trail, which passes over Denny Creek in several places. After a few miles, you'll have great views of Keekwulee falls. After some elevation gain, at about 4 miles into the hike, you'll make it to Hemlock pass, which is the starting point for some downhill hiking until you reach lower Melakwa Lake.

Once at the lake, you have the option to travel to the north end of the lake which will give you access to the second upper Melakwa lake. Both lakes provides great views of Kaleetan Peak and Chair Peak.

Once you're ready to head back, just return on the trail the way you came.