Basin Lake

A terrific, moderate ridge walk with fabulous views into the Norse Peak Wilderness near Mount Rainier on a clear day. It's 9.5 miles round trip and 2,300 feet of elevation gain.

getting there

Drive SR 410 ~6.5 miles east from Chinook Pass. Turn left onto Forest Road 462 and follow it ~3 miles to the Bear Gap and Pickhandle Gap Trailhead (4,900 ft).

on the trail

Hike from the trailhead to meet the Pacific Crest Trail at Pickhandle Gap (5,900 ft). Follows the Pacific Crest Trail northward, rolling along just below Crown Point and Norse Peak.  In 3.5 miles, at the intersection with Trail No. 987, leave the Pacific Crest Trail and drop down into the Lake Basin and Basin Lake on the Basin Lake Trail (No. 987A). Return from Basin Lake south through Cement Basin (Trail No. 987) to make this a loop, or return the way you came via the Pacific Crest Trail for an out-and-back trip.

  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Length: 9.5 None
  • Elevation Gain: 2,300 ft
  • 6,400 ft
Map
  • Green Trails Bumping Lake No. 271
Activities
Trip Reports
Titles

This is a list of titles that represent the variations of trips you can take at this route/place. This includes side trips, extensions and peak combinations. Not seeing a title that fits your trip? Log in and send us updates, images, or resources.

  • Basic Lake Loop
  • Crystal Catwalk
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