Summer
July-September
Hiking & Exploring
Alpine Lakes High Camp is the perfect spot to soak up the summer sunshine—relax in a hammock, pick fresh huckleberries, or stargaze under the clear night sky. For those seeking adventure, eight exciting hikes (2 to 11 miles) lead to breathtaking destinations, with six stunning Alpine Lakes to explore. Fishing is fantastic in the crystal-clear lakes, and swimming in the alpine waters is just few of the incredible experiences that are accessible right from your cabin door . It’s all about making memories in nature’s playground. Wilderness permits and maps are available at the day lodge.
MOUNTAIN BIKING
This is a whole new way to experience the epic scenery surrounding Alpine Lakes High Camp! With two main trails our network is small, but mighty! Old Julius is an Intermediate-Advanced descent trail that starts at the top of McCue Ridge and winds its way 4,500’ down to our guest parking lot - making it one of the longer descent trails in Washington. We’ve also recently finished a Loop Trail that utilizes the upper part of Old Julius trail, but routes back to McCue Ridge - allowing you arrive back at your cabin at the end of your ride! There’s also a myriad of old logging roads for Beginner mountain bikers and kids. Truly something for everyone!
The Hikes
Sunset Meadow (1.5 miles round trip)
A short hike perfect for exploring the Chiwaukum Mountains. Start on Mac's Express, then turn left at a junction to climb Wild Bill Hill and reach Sunset Meadow. Enjoy views of Snowgrass and Big Chiwaukum summits. For an extended option, follow Low Road west to a junction with Mac's Express.
Inspiration Lookout and Stegosaurus Rock (2 miles round trip)
This short, steep hike offers two great viewpoints above High Camp. Follow Mac's Express to its end, then take Cliffhanger trail to Inspiration Lookout. For better views, continue uphill to Stegosaurus Rock with expansive views in all directions, including Big Jim to the southeast.
Chiwaukum Lake (6 miles round trip)
Take Sunset/Upper Sunset trails to McCue Ridge, then continue downhill along a gentle traverse. For those with more time, take the steep bushwhack to Jason Lakes above Honour Lake.
Lake Julius (5 miles round trip) & Loch Eileen (6.5 miles round trip)
Two scenic alpine lakes are the reward for this hike. Start on Mac's Express, then take the Boundary trail to Lake Julius. From there, continue to Loch Eileen via a short, steep climb. Look for golden larch trees in October.
Lake Donald and The High Meadows (8 miles round trip plus roaming)
A beautiful alpine lake and meadows await! After visiting Loch Eileen, follow cairns to Lake Donald, then explore the High Meadows above. To view Larch Lake, scramble west up McCue Ridge from Lake Donald.
Lake Ethel (9 miles round trip)
This hike leads to a stunning lake within old-growth forest. After crossing Roaring Creek, turn right at a junction and climb to a ridge, then descend into a forest of Spruce and Douglas Fir to reach Lake Ethel.
Larch Lake (10 miles round trip)
The ultimate hike to a breathtaking mountain lake, especially in October when the larch trees turn gold. From Chiwaukum Lake, follow a trail that ascends through Ewing Basin to Larch Lake. If you have time, head up to Cup Lake just above Larch Lake.
