How to Hike Blue Lake in Fall | Witness Golden Larches & Turquoise Alpine Waters in the North Cascades
Experience one of Washington's most accessible and spectacular fall hikes, where golden larches frame a pristine alpine lake beneath the dramatic peaks of the North Cascades.
Quick Overview
📍 Location: Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, North Cascades Highway (SR 20), Washington
🏙️ Closest Town: Winthrop, WA (31 miles east) | Newhalem, WA (42 miles west)
🅿️ Trailhead Access: Paved parking lot directly off Highway 20, approximately 0.8 miles before
Washington Pass Overlook
💲 Parking Pass Requirements: Northwest Forest Pass, America the Beautiful Pass, or digital
day pass via Recreation.gov required
〽️ Elevation Gain: 1,050 feet
🥾 Distance (round trip): 4.4 miles
🌄 Trail Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (steady but gradual ascent, well-maintained trail)
🚻 Restrooms: Vault toilet available at trailhead
🌸 Best Season: Early to mid-October for peak golden larch display; July-September for wild‐
flowers
🗺️ Trailhead Location
Use the map above to navigate to the trailhead. The parking lot is directly off Highway 20.
🎒 What to Pack
For Day Hikers:
- Navigation: Downloaded trail map or GPS device (cell service is unreliable)
- Sun Protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen (SPF 30+), and wide-brimmed hat (high alpine sun is intense)
- Insulation: Lightweight puffy jacket or fleece (temperatures drop quickly at 6,200+ feet)
- Illumination: Headlamp with extra batteries
- First Aid Kit: Including blister treatment and any personal medications
- Fire Starter: Waterproof matches or lighter (emergency use only)
- Repair Kit: Duct tape, multi-tool
- Nutrition: High-energy snacks and lunch (trail mix, energy bars, jerky)
- Hydration: 2-3 liters of water per person (no reliable water sources on trail)
- Emergency Shelter: Lightweight emergency bivy or space blanket
- Layered Clothing: Moisture-wicking base layer, insulating mid-layer, waterproof/windproof shell
- Trekking Poles Helpful for the steady ascent and descent
- Camera: The views are absolutely stunning—don't forget extra batteries
- Bear Spray Black bears are present in the area
For Overnight Backpackers:
Note: Camping is not permitted at Blue Lake. This section is for reference if you're continuing into the backcountry.
- All items from the day hiking list, plus:
- Shelter: Lightweight backpacking tent [AFFILIATE LINK]
- Sleep System: 20°F-rated sleeping bag [AFFILIATE LINK] and insulated sleeping pad
- Cooking: Backpacking stove [AFFILIATE LINK], fuel, cookware, utensils
- Food Storage: Bear canister or Ursack [AFFILIATE LINK] (required in many North Cascades areas)
- Water Treatment: Filter or purification tablets [AFFILIATE LINK]
- Hygiene: Trowel, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, biodegradable soap
- Wilderness Permit: Free, available at trailhead
🥾 Trail Description – What to Expect
The Blue Lake Trail is a North Cascades gem that delivers maximum scenic impact with moderate effort. This well-maintained path is perfect for hikers seeking the iconic golden larch experience without committing to a grueling, high-mileage adventure.
The Journey Begins: Trailhead to Subalpine Forest (Mile 0.0 - 0.5)
Your adventure starts at an elevation of approximately 5,200 feet, right off the North Cascades Highway. The trail immediately enters a beautiful subalpine forest, beginning with a series of well-constructed boardwalks that protect the fragile wetland ecosystem. These elevated walkways wind through a lush environment of mountain hemlock, subalpine fir, and—most importantly—the first glimpses of subalpine larch trees.
In early October, these larches begin their spectacular transformation from green to brilliant golden-yellow, creating a warm glow against the deep evergreen backdrop. The boardwalk section is relatively flat and provides an excellent warm-up for the steady climb ahead.
The Ascent: Climbing Through Larch Groves (Mile 0.5 - 1.8)
After the boardwalks, the trail begins its steady ascent through increasingly open terrain. The path is well-graded with gentle switchbacks, making the 1,050-foot elevation gain feel manageable. As you climb, the forest transitions from dense to more scattered, allowing for increasingly dramatic views.
This section is where the larch magic truly happens. During peak season (typically the first two weeks of October), you'll be surrounded by thousands of golden larches creating a surreal, almost otherworldly atmosphere. The needles glow in the sunlight, and when the wind blows, they shimmer like gold coins. The contrast between the golden larches, the dark green of the evergreens, and the gray granite peaks is simply breathtaking.
Navigation Tips: The trail is well-marked and easy to follow. Stay on the main path and avoid cutting switchbacks, which causes erosion and damages the fragile alpine vegetation.
Photo Opportunities: Every turn offers a new composition. Look for opportunities to frame the larches against the dramatic peaks of Liberty Bell Mountain and Early Winters Spires, which dominate the skyline to the south.
The Final Push: Approaching Blue Lake (Mile 1.8 - 2.2)
As you near the lake, the trail levels out and enters a stunning alpine basin. The terrain becomes more rocky, with granite boulders scattered across the landscape. The larches here are particularly photogenic, growing in small clusters among the rocks.
At approximately mile 2.0, you'll catch your first glimpse of Blue Lake's distinctive turquoise waters. The color is caused by glacial flour—fine rock particles suspended in the water that reflect light in the blue-green spectrum. The effect is most pronounced on sunny days.
Blue Lake: The Destination (Mile 2.2)
Blue Lake sits at 6,254 feet in a dramatic cirque surrounded by towering granite peaks. The lake is relatively small but incredibly scenic, with crystal-clear water that reflects the surrounding mountains and larches. On calm days, the reflections are mirror-perfect, creating stunning photographic opportunities.
Best Photo Spots:
- East Shore: Offers the classic view with Liberty Bell Mountain in the background
- North Shore: Provides a different perspective with the larches framing the lake
- Granite Boulders: Scattered around the lake, these make excellent foreground elements for compositions
Swimming Conditions: The water is glacially cold (typically 40-50°F even in summer), making swimming a bracing experience reserved for the truly adventurous. Wading along the shore is more common and refreshing after the hike up.
Wildlife: Keep your eyes open for pikas (small, round-eared mammals that live in the rockfields), marmots, and occasionally mountain goats on the surrounding cliffs. Black bears are present in the area but rarely seen at the lake itself.
Seasonal Highlights
Peak Larch Season (Late September - Mid October): This is when the trail is at its absolute best. The larches turn golden, creating a spectacular display. Expect large crowds, especially on weekends. The first hard frost typically triggers the color change, which lasts about 2-3 weeks.
Summer (July - September): The trail is snow-free and offers excellent wildflower displays in the meadows, including lupine, paintbrush, and aster. The lake is at its fullest, and the weather is generally more stable.
Early Fall (Mid-September): The larches are still green, but the crowds are lighter. This is a good time to visit if you want a more solitary experience.
Late Fall (Mid-October - November): After the larches drop their needles, the trail becomes much quieter. Early snow is possible, and the highway may close for the season.
Trail Etiquette & RESPECT Through Recreation
- Stay on Trail: The alpine environment is extremely fragile. Stepping off-trail damages vegetation that takes decades to recover.
- Pack Out All Trash: Including orange peels, apple cores, and other organic waste. "RESPECT Through Recreation" means exactly that.
- Respect Wildlife: Observe from a distance. Never feed animals or approach them for photos.
- Yield to Uphill Hikers: Step aside and let ascending hikers pass.
- Keep Dogs Leashed: Even friendly dogs can disturb wildlife and other hikers.
- No Drones: Drones are prohibited in wilderness areas and disturb the natural soundscape.
🌲 RESPECT Through Recreation
At Recreation Leader, we believe that outdoor recreation is more than just physical activity—it's a practice of connection, gratitude, and stewardship. The RESPECT framework guides us in creating meaningful, sustainable relationships with the wild places we love.
R – Root Yourself in Recreation
Before you step onto the trail, take a moment to ground yourself in the present. Feel your feet on the earth, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and set an intention for your hike. Recreation is not just about reaching the destination; it's about being fully present for the journey.
E – Express Gratitude
As you hike through the golden larches and gaze upon Blue Lake's turquoise waters, pause to express gratitude—for the public lands that make this experience possible, for the volunteers who maintain the trails, and for the natural processes that create such beauty. Gratitude deepens our connection to place.
S – Share Your Experience
When you return from your hike, share your experience with others—not just the photos, but the feelings, the lessons, and the inspiration. Encourage friends and family to explore responsibly. Your stories can inspire the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts and conservation advocates.
P – Practice Connection to Place
Learn about the ecology, geology, and human history of the North Cascades. Understand that the larches you're admiring are a unique species adapted to harsh alpine conditions, and that the granite peaks were carved by ancient glaciers. Knowledge creates deeper connection and respect.
E – Engage Your Senses
Put your phone away for portions of the hike and truly engage your senses. Listen to the wind through the larches, smell the alpine air, feel the texture of the granite, taste the cold mountain water. Sensory engagement creates lasting memories and profound connection.
C – Cultivate Community
Greet fellow hikers on the trail. Share beta about conditions. Offer help if someone is struggling. The outdoor community is built on mutual support and shared passion. Your kindness on the trail strengthens the entire community.
T – Teach RESPECT
If you're hiking with children, friends, or newcomers to the outdoors, model and teach these principles. Explain why we stay on trail, pack out trash, and respect wildlife. Every outdoor experience is an opportunity to create the next generation of thoughtful recreationists and conservation advocates.
⚠️ Trail Alerts & Current Conditions
Highway Closure: The North Cascades Highway (SR 20) typically closes for winter from mid-November through late April or early May. Check current status at WSDOT Mountain Pass Report.
Fire Conditions: Wildfires can impact trail access and air quality during summer and early fall. Check current fire information at Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest Alerts.
Early Snow: Snow can arrive at high elevations as early as late September. If you're hiking in October, be prepared for winter conditions and check the forecast before you go.
Bear Activity: Black bears are active in the area, especially in late summer and fall as they prepare for hibernation. Carry bear spray, make noise on the trail, and know how to respond to bear encounters.
Trail Conditions: For the most current trail conditions, check the Washington Trails Association trip reports before your hike.
🔗 Bonus Resources
GPX File & Trail Map:
- Blue Lake Trail on AllTrails (downloadable GPX)
- Blue Lake Trail on Hiking Project
Official Forest Service Information:
Related Recreation Leader Guides:
- How to Hike Heather-Maple Pass Loop - Another spectacular larch hike nearby
- The BEST Low-key Golden Larch Hike in Southern Washington - Alternative larch destinations
- Everything You Need to Know About Central Cascades Wilderness Permits
Gear Up for Your Adventure: Looking to build your outdoor skills or plan your first backpacking trip? Check out our Outdoor Skills Starter Package ($499) for personalized consulting with a former Park & Wilderness Ranger. Whether you're a total beginner or looking to level up your backcountry skills, TC can help you prepare for safe, confident adventures in the Pacific Northwest.
Visiting the Bend Area? If you're traveling from Central Oregon, consider our Experience 3-Days of Bend with a Friend package ($1,499 for up to 4 guests). Spend three days exploring Bend's best trails, secret spots, and local favorites with TC as your guide and friend.
📸 Share Your Adventure
Tag your Blue Lake photos with #RecreationLeader and #RESPECTThroughRecreation on Instagram. We love seeing how our community experiences these incredible trails!
Tags
Blue Lake hike, Blue Lake Washington, North Cascades hiking, golden larches Washington, fall hiking Washington, larch hikes, Washington fall colors, North Cascades Highway, alpine lake hikes, easy fall hikes Washington, Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, Liberty Bell Mountain, Washington Pass, best fall hikes Pacific Northwest, larch season Washington, October hiking Washington, family-friendly alpine hikes, turquoise alpine lakes, North Cascades larch hikes, Washington State hiking, Pacific Northwest fall foliage
Written by Trevor (TC) Christianson | Former Park & Wilderness Ranger | Recreationist, Naturalist, Ranger at Heart
Recreation Leader is dedicated to inspiring responsible outdoor recreation through education, storytelling, and community. Learn more at recreationleader.com. Experience one of Washington's most accessible and spectacular fall hikes, where golden larches frame a pristine alpine lake beneath the dramatic peaks of the North Cascades.
🗺️ Trailhead Location
Use the map above to navigate to the trailhead. The parking lot is directly off Highway 20.
🎒 What to Pack
For Day Hikers:
- Navigation: Downloaded trail map or GPS device (cell service is unreliable)
- Sun Protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen (SPF 30+), and wide-brimmed hat (high alpine sun is intense)
- Insulation: Lightweight puffy jacket or fleece (temperatures drop quickly at 6,200+ feet)
- Illumination: Headlamp with extra batteries
- First Aid Kit: Including blister treatment and any personal medications
- Fire Starter: Waterproof matches or lighter (emergency use only)
- Repair Kit: Duct tape, multi-tool
- Nutrition: High-energy snacks and lunch (trail mix, energy bars, jerky)
- Hydration: 2-3 liters of water per person (no reliable water sources on trail)
- Emergency Shelter: Lightweight emergency bivy or space blanket
- Layered Clothing: Moisture-wicking base layer, insulating mid-layer, waterproof/windproof shell
- Trekking Poles Helpful for the steady ascent and descent
- Camera: The views are absolutely stunning—don't forget extra batteries
- Bear Spray Black bears are present in the area
For Overnight Backpackers:
Note: Camping is not permitted at Blue Lake. This section is for reference if you're continuing into the backcountry.
- All items from the day hiking list, plus:
- Shelter: Lightweight backpacking tent [AFFILIATE LINK]
- Sleep System: 20°F-rated sleeping bag [AFFILIATE LINK] and insulated sleeping pad
- Cooking: Backpacking stove [AFFILIATE LINK], fuel, cookware, utensils
- Food Storage: Bear canister or Ursack [AFFILIATE LINK] (required in many North Cascades areas)
- Water Treatment: Filter or purification tablets [AFFILIATE LINK]
- Hygiene: Trowel, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, biodegradable soap
- Wilderness Permit: Free, available at trailhead
🥾 Trail Description – What to Expect
The Blue Lake Trail is a North Cascades gem that delivers maximum scenic impact with moderate effort. This well-maintained path is perfect for hikers seeking the iconic golden larch experience without committing to a grueling, high-mileage adventure.
The Journey Begins: Trailhead to Subalpine Forest (Mile 0.0 - 0.5)
Your adventure starts at an elevation of approximately 5,200 feet, right off the North Cascades Highway. The trail immediately enters a beautiful subalpine forest, beginning with a series of well-constructed boardwalks that protect the fragile wetland ecosystem. These elevated walkways wind through a lush environment of mountain hemlock, subalpine fir, and—most importantly—the first glimpses of subalpine larch trees.
In early October, these larches begin their spectacular transformation from green to brilliant golden-yellow, creating a warm glow against the deep evergreen backdrop. The boardwalk section is relatively flat and provides an excellent warm-up for the steady climb ahead.
The Ascent: Climbing Through Larch Groves (Mile 0.5 - 1.8)
After the boardwalks, the trail begins its steady ascent through increasingly open terrain. The path is well-graded with gentle switchbacks, making the 1,050-foot elevation gain feel manageable. As you climb, the forest transitions from dense to more scattered, allowing for increasingly dramatic views.
This section is where the larch magic truly happens. During peak season (typically the first two weeks of October), you'll be surrounded by thousands of golden larches creating a surreal, almost otherworldly atmosphere. The needles glow in the sunlight, and when the wind blows, they shimmer like gold coins. The contrast between the golden larches, the dark green of the evergreens, and the gray granite peaks is simply breathtaking.
Navigation Tips: The trail is well-marked and easy to follow. Stay on the main path and avoid cutting switchbacks, which causes erosion and damages the fragile alpine vegetation.
Photo Opportunities: Every turn offers a new composition. Look for opportunities to frame the larches against the dramatic peaks of Liberty Bell Mountain and Early Winters Spires, which dominate the skyline to the south.
The Final Push: Approaching Blue Lake (Mile 1.8 - 2.2)
As you near the lake, the trail levels out and enters a stunning alpine basin. The terrain becomes more rocky, with granite boulders scattered across the landscape. The larches here are particularly photogenic, growing in small clusters among the rocks.
At approximately mile 2.0, you'll catch your first glimpse of Blue Lake's distinctive turquoise waters. The color is caused by glacial flour—fine rock particles suspended in the water that reflect light in the blue-green spectrum. The effect is most pronounced on sunny days.
Blue Lake: The Destination (Mile 2.2)
Blue Lake sits at 6,254 feet in a dramatic cirque surrounded by towering granite peaks. The lake is relatively small but incredibly scenic, with crystal-clear water that reflects the surrounding mountains and larches. On calm days, the reflections are mirror-perfect, creating stunning photographic opportunities.
Best Photo Spots:
- East Shore: Offers the classic view with Liberty Bell Mountain in the background
- North Shore: Provides a different perspective with the larches framing the lake
- Granite Boulders: Scattered around the lake, these make excellent foreground elements for compositions
Swimming Conditions: The water is glacially cold (typically 40-50°F even in summer), making swimming a bracing experience reserved for the truly adventurous. Wading along the shore is more common and refreshing after the hike up.
Wildlife: Keep your eyes open for pikas (small, round-eared mammals that live in the rockfields), marmots, and occasionally mountain goats on the surrounding cliffs. Black bears are present in the area but rarely seen at the lake itself.
Seasonal Highlights
Peak Larch Season (Late September - Mid October): This is when the trail is at its absolute best. The larches turn golden, creating a spectacular display. Expect large crowds, especially on weekends. The first hard frost typically triggers the color change, which lasts about 2-3 weeks.
Summer (July - September): The trail is snow-free and offers excellent wildflower displays in the meadows, including lupine, paintbrush, and aster. The lake is at its fullest, and the weather is generally more stable.
Early Fall (Mid-September): The larches are still green, but the crowds are lighter. This is a good time to visit if you want a more solitary experience.
Late Fall (Mid-October - November): After the larches drop their needles, the trail becomes much quieter. Early snow is possible, and the highway may close for the season.
Trail Etiquette & RESPECT Through Recreation
- Stay on Trail: The alpine environment is extremely fragile. Stepping off-trail damages vegetation that takes decades to recover.
- Pack Out All Trash: Including orange peels, apple cores, and other organic waste. "RESPECT Through Recreation" means exactly that.
- Respect Wildlife: Observe from a distance. Never feed animals or approach them for photos.
- Yield to Uphill Hikers: Step aside and let ascending hikers pass.
- Keep Dogs Leashed: Even friendly dogs can disturb wildlife and other hikers.
- No Drones: Drones are prohibited in wilderness areas and disturb the natural soundscape.
🌲 RESPECT Through Recreation
At Recreation Leader, we believe that outdoor recreation is more than just physical activity—it's a practice of connection, gratitude, and stewardship. The RESPECT framework guides us in creating meaningful, sustainable relationships with the wild places we love.
R – Root Yourself in Recreation
Before you step onto the trail, take a moment to ground yourself in the present. Feel your feet on the earth, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and set an intention for your hike. Recreation is not just about reaching the destination; it's about being fully present for the journey.
E – Express Gratitude
As you hike through the golden larches and gaze upon Blue Lake's turquoise waters, pause to express gratitude—for the public lands that make this experience possible, for the volunteers who maintain the trails, and for the natural processes that create such beauty. Gratitude deepens our connection to place.
S – Share Your Experience
When you return from your hike, share your experience with others—not just the photos, but the feelings, the lessons, and the inspiration. Encourage friends and family to explore responsibly. Your stories can inspire the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts and conservation advocates.
P – Practice Connection to Place
Learn about the ecology, geology, and human history of the North Cascades. Understand that the larches you're admiring are a unique species adapted to harsh alpine conditions, and that the granite peaks were carved by ancient glaciers. Knowledge creates deeper connection and respect.
E – Engage Your Senses
Put your phone away for portions of the hike and truly engage your senses. Listen to the wind through the larches, smell the alpine air, feel the texture of the granite, taste the cold mountain water. Sensory engagement creates lasting memories and profound connection.
C – Cultivate Community
Greet fellow hikers on the trail. Share beta about conditions. Offer help if someone is struggling. The outdoor community is built on mutual support and shared passion. Your kindness on the trail strengthens the entire community.
T – Teach RESPECT
If you're hiking with children, friends, or newcomers to the outdoors, model and teach these principles. Explain why we stay on trail, pack out trash, and respect wildlife. Every outdoor experience is an opportunity to create the next generation of thoughtful recreationists and conservation advocates.
⚠️ Trail Alerts & Current Conditions
Highway Closure: The North Cascades Highway (SR 20) typically closes for winter from mid-November through late April or early May. Check current status at WSDOT Mountain Pass Report.
Fire Conditions: Wildfires can impact trail access and air quality during summer and early fall. Check current fire information at Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest Alerts.
Early Snow: Snow can arrive at high elevations as early as late September. If you're hiking in October, be prepared for winter conditions and check the forecast before you go.
Bear Activity: Black bears are active in the area, especially in late summer and fall as they prepare for hibernation. Carry bear spray, make noise on the trail, and know how to respond to bear encounters.
Trail Conditions: For the most current trail conditions, check the Washington Trails Association trip reports before your hike.
🔗 Bonus Resources
GPX File & Trail Map:
- Blue Lake Trail on AllTrails (downloadable GPX)
- Blue Lake Trail on Hiking Project
Official Forest Service Information:
Related Recreation Leader Guides:
- How to Hike Heather-Maple Pass Loop - Another spectacular larch hike nearby
- The BEST Low-key Golden Larch Hike in Southern Washington - Alternative larch destinations
- Everything You Need to Know About Central Cascades Wilderness Permits
Gear Up for Your Adventure: Looking to build your outdoor skills or plan your first backpacking trip? Check out our Outdoor Skills Starter Package ($499) for personalized consulting with a former Park & Wilderness Ranger. Whether you're a total beginner or looking to level up your backcountry skills, TC can help you prepare for safe, confident adventures in the Pacific Northwest.
Visiting the Bend Area? If you're traveling from Central Oregon, consider our Experience 3-Days of Bend with a Friend package ($1,499 for up to 4 guests). Spend three days exploring Bend's best trails, secret spots, and local favorites with TC as your guide and friend.
📸 Share Your Adventure
Tag your Blue Lake photos with #RecreationLeader and #RESPECTThroughRecreation on Instagram. We love seeing how our community experiences these incredible trails!
Tags
Blue Lake hike, Blue Lake Washington, North Cascades hiking, golden larches Washington, fall hiking Washington, larch hikes, Washington fall colors, North Cascades Highway, alpine lake hikes, easy fall hikes Washington, Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, Liberty Bell Mountain, Washington Pass, best fall hikes Pacific Northwest, larch season Washington, October hiking Washington, family-friendly alpine hikes, turquoise alpine lakes, North Cascades larch hikes, Washington State hiking, Pacific Northwest fall foliage
Written by Trevor (TC) Christianson | Former Park & Wilderness Ranger | Recreationist, Naturalist, Ranger at Heart
Recreation Leader is dedicated to inspiring responsible outdoor recreation through education, storytelling, and community. Learn more at recreationleader.com.
