Jun 15 2008
Green Lake, WA
If you want a truly scenic hike, I would suggest Green Lake, located past the small town of Wilkeson, WA. This hike takes you through 1.8 miles of old growth timber to a glistening lake at the an elevation of 3220 feet. Along the way, you’ll see a rushing creek, climb switchbacks, and ascend 1120 into the heart of some of the most beautiful country this part of the northwest.
The first time I hiked this, I was with a group of high school and college youth on a “field trip” at a camp meeting I was attending. After taking a bus up, we started to climb the fairly good trail to the top. It was June, so the weather was actually somewhat cold, and it was about 45 degrees at the trailhead. It took about 30 minutes to get to the top, where I was greeted by a calm lake with crystal clear waters and bordered by mountains. Despite the 40 degree temperatures, I remember some of the kids couldn’t resist bragging rights about swimming in a freezing cold lake.
Overall, I would suggest this hike for beginner and intermediate level hikers. For those who aren’t used to such a climb, it might take a little longer, but the lake and experience is definitely worth it.
Directions:
From Orting, WA, go south/east on hwy 162 toward Buckley and South Prairie.
After South Prairie, there is a turnoff to Buckley. Continue going straight to Wilkeson on hwy 165.
Go through Wilkeson and continue on hwy 165 past Carbonado.
At the fork, continue left on Fairfax Forest Reserve Road to the Carbon River entrance.
Continue 3 miles east on Faifax Forest Service Road to the Green Lake trailhead.
