Rachel, Rampart & Lila Lakes

getting there

Take Exit 62 (Kachess Lake) off of I-90 and follow signs 5 miles to Kachess Lake Campground. Turn left onto Box Canyon Road (Forest Road 4930) and drive 4.2 miles to Rachel Lake Trailhead (2,800 ft).

on the trail

Rachel Lake (4,700 ft)

8.0 miles round trip, 1,900 feet of elevation gain

Hike the trail 4.4 miles through Box Creek Canyon to to Rachel Lake (4,700 ft). While the total distance and elevation gain suggests a moderate hike, the infamous Rachel Lake "mile from hell" is truly grueling and inappropriate for those who are not in athletic condition. In one mile, a heavily rooted and rough boot path ascends 1,300 feet. This portion is more like a scramble than a hike, and boots are a must.

Rampart Lakes (5,100 ft)

10.6 miles round trip, 2,300 feet of elevation gain

From Rachel Lake continue 0.6 mile on the trail north of the lake to ridge crest (5,100 ft). Turn left and follow the trail 0.7 mile to Rampart Lakes.

Lila Lakes (5,200 ft)

11.4 miles round trip, 2,500 feet of elevation gain

From Rachel Lake continue 0.6 mi on trail north of the lake to ridge crest (5,100 ft). Turn right heading and follow the trail 1.1 miles to Lila Lakes (5,200).  From the ridge,  you'll climb 300 feet and descend 200 feet.  Expect more rocky and steep portions on the way to Lila Lake.

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

• Difficulty: Moderate, Strenuous
• Length: 8.0 mi
• Elevation Gain: 100 ft
• High Point: 4,700 ft

• Land Manager: Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forests
  Alpine Lakes Wilderness, Cle Elum Ranger District (OWNF)
• Parking Permit Required: Northwest Forest Pass
• Recommended Party Size: 12
• Maximum Party Size: 12
• Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12