Heather Lake (Mountain Loop)

getting there

summer

Drive the Mountain Loop Highway east of Granite Falls to 1.0 mile past the Verlot Public Service Center (Ranger Station). Turn right onto Forest Road 42 and continue 1.3 miles to the trailhead (1,400 ft).

winter

From Granite Falls drive east on the Mountain Loop Highway. Turn right (south) on Mount Pilchuck Road, this is around 1 mile from the Verlot Ranger Station. Continue up the road around 1.6 miles until you reach the winter closure gate. Park on the wide areas near the gate being careful not to block any other side roads or the main access road.

on the trail

4.6 miles round trip with 1,100 feet of elevation gain, 2,500 ft high point

Hike the trail to Heather Lake.

Snowshoe Route

4.0 miles round trip with 1,100 feet of elevation gain, 2,500 ft high point

From the trailhead off the Mountain Loop Highway, the trail climbs 1,100 ft in two miles making this a nice little workout on snowshoes. On the other hand, the lower elevation of this hike means the trail is often hikeable with boots and traction devices for much of the winter season. The heavily forested trail ends at a beautiful alpine lake nestled against the north face of Mount Pilchuck. NW Forest Pass required.

• Suitable Activities: Day Hiking
• Seasons: April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November
• Weather: View weather forecast

• Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
• Length: 4.6 mi
• Elevation Gain: 1,100 ft
• High Point: 2,500 ft

• Land Manager: Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest
  Darrington Ranger District (MBSNF)
• Parking Permit Required: Northwest Forest Pass
• Recommended Party Size: 12
• Maximum Party Size: 12
• Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12