Blue Lake Trail Guide: Stunning in Summer, Glowing with Larches in Fall

Blue Lake is one of the North Cascades’ most accessible alpine gems. Right off Highway 20 near Washington Pass, this short out-and-back trail delivers turquoise water, jagged granite peaks, and (in fall) some of Washington’s most photogenic larches. If you’re planning a trip, you’ll also love my roundup of the Best Hikes in the North Cascades.

While it’s famous for October color, Blue Lake shines in every season — from wildflowers and deep-blue water in summer to golden larches in autumn to snow-dusted peaks in early winter. For fall planning in particular, don’t miss my complete guide to the Best Fall Hikes in Washington.

Trail Snapshot

  • Distance: ~4.6 miles round-trip
  • Elevation gain: ~1,000 ft
  • Time: 2–3 hours
  • Trail type: Out-and-back
  • Difficulty: Easy to moderate (family-friendly)
  • Season: June–October (best), early winter with caution
  • Link to Alltrails

If You Go

You’ll need a Northwest Forest Pass (or America the Beautiful annual pass) to park at the Blue Lake trailhead.

A vault toilet is available, but no water — bring your own.

Summer can mean mosquito season, so pack repellent if you’re visiting in July or August. In fall, arrive early (before 8 am) or aim for a weekday to beat the parking crunch.

The trail typically melts out by late June, but snow can linger into early July after heavy winters.

For a bigger adventure, pair Blue Lake with a scenic stop at the Washington Pass Overlook, just minutes away on Highway 20.

Why Hike Blue Lake?

  • Big payoff for little effort: Just a couple of hours brings you to one of the prettiest alpine lakes in Washington.
  • Family-friendly: The short mileage makes it accessible for kids and newer hikers.
  • Iconic scenery: Liberty Bell and Early Winters Spires rise dramatically along the trail.
  • Larch magic: In October, the shoreline glows gold with larches reflecting in the water.

Best Seasons to Visit

Summer:

  • Snow-free from late June through September/ early October.
  • Wildflowers fill the meadows and the water is at its most vibrant turquoise.

Fall (September–October):

  • Peak larch season is typically late September to mid-October.
  • Crowds are heavy, but the reflections of golden larches on the lake are worth it.
  • Trailhead parking fills fast — plan for sunrise or a weekday.

Early Winter (before Highway 20 closes):

  • Snow-dusted peaks make Blue Lake even more dramatic.
  • Expect icy conditions — bring microspikes and know that Highway 20 usually closes for the season in November.

What to Expect on the Trail

The hike starts in the forest, climbs gently through meadows, and then opens up to sweeping alpine views as you approach the lake. The final approach is jaw-dropping: turquoise water framed by granite spires, with larches crowding the shoreline in fall.

Parking & Crowds

  • The trailhead is right off Highway 20.
  • The lot fills early (by 8 am in October, often by 10 am in summer weekends).
  • Overflow parking is along the shoulder.
  • For fewer crowds: aim for a weekday, sunrise start, or late afternoon.

Alternatives Nearby

  • Maple Pass Loop – The iconic (but crowded) Highway 20 larch hike.
  • Cutthroat Pass – A longer hike with ridgeline views and fewer crowds.
  • Grasshopper Pass via Harts Pass – Expansive ridgelines and meadows of larches without the Maple Pass chaos.

Final Thoughts

Blue Lake is one of those rare trails that’s worth hiking in every season. In summer, it’s turquoise and wildflower-framed; in fall, the shoreline glows with golden larches; in early winter, the spires dusted with snow feel almost otherworldly.

Yes, it can be crowded — but it’s popular for a reason. If you’re planning a Highway 20 trip, make room for Blue Lake on your list.

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