Visit one of the most striking lakes in the Henry M. Jackson wilderness. The vibrant blue of the glacier-fed lake provides the perfect rest stop for hikers who have braved the thirty-odd, steep switchbacks that lead to the lake. The trail starts in cool …

Experience this 8.0-mile out-and-back trail near Baring, Washington. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 5 h 52 min to complete. This is a very popular area for backpacking, camping, and hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are June through October.

Sep 16, 2024 · It’s a tough hike for sure, but at an eight-mile round trip, the pain and suffering will end at some point, and you’ll be able to soak in some dramatic views of a turquoise lake, melting glaciers, and pretty mountains. While anyone can do this hike, you should be in decent hiking shape to enjoy it.

Oct 4, 2023 · Blanca Lake Trail is a bucket list hike in the heart of the Cascade Mountains of Washington. This guide contains everything you need to know for your hike!

Blanca Lake nestles in a basin surrounded by Monte Cristo, Kyes and Columbia peaks, fed by the Columbia Glacier on the northwest end. The glacier’s chilly, silt-filled melt-water creates the lake’s bright turquoise green color.

May 24, 2022 · Blanca Lake is without a doubt one of Washington state’s most beautiful lakes. This hike truly makes you work for the views with over 3,000 feet of elevation gain, but it is worth all the effort to see that gatorade blue water with your own eyes. The lake sits at the base of Monte Cristo, Kyes and Columbia peaks.

Dec 1, 2020 · Here's a guide to hiking Blanca Lake, a beautiful alpine lake just two hours from Seattle. Includes directions, important logistics, and tips on what to bring.

Blanca Lake Trailhead Area Status: Open Provides access to: Blanca Lake Trail 1052 which accesses Wild Sky Wilderness and Henry M. Jackson Wilderness .

Mar 29, 2025 · Come out and hike to Blanca Lake! Distance: 8 miles Elevation Gain: 3,400 ft. Difficulty: Hard. Let’s take a trip to one of the most beautiful lakes in western Washington. Be prepared to work for it first though, as the trail up is pretty steep and will likely have a lot of snow this time of year.

Aug 17, 2023 · Set in a large open cirque in the rugged Monte Cristo Peaks, and fed by the Columbia Glacier and icy snowfields, Blanca Lake’s location is one of the most dramatic in the Central Cascades. But what makes this lake really striking, is its cobalt blue water; and its sheen and tone constantly changing depending upon the amount and angle of ...