Regardless of their skill level or experience, nearly all hikers have two basic questions when choosing an adventure: How much effort is required? And what is the playoff at the end? The Lake Barclay Trail offers a high reward ratio. Many hikers express surprise about the scenery of the lake and the views of Baring Mountain that suddenly emerge at the end of the trail.

The reflections of the trees, sky, and Baring Mountain are the hallmark of Barclay Lake, the prize at the end of the trail.
Elise Burns/iStock Getty Images Plus
The Lake Barclay Trailhead is located north of the town of Baring. The round trip of 4.4 miles has an elevation gain of less than 500 feet.
Richard Labossiere/alltrails
This is one trail that provides incentives to hikers to keep their eyes low along the way. The variety of plant life is one factor that will keep children interested.
Natural Perspectives Photography/Moment Open via Getty Images

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The trail continues for a half-mile around Barclay Lake, although it is possible to shorten the trip by turning around when the lake comes into view.
David Chapman/alltrails
The greenery that defines Washington's Central Cascades is part of the attraction of the Barclay Lake Trail, which follows the path of Barclay Creek to the lake.
Cindy Hales/alltrails
Baring Mountain, almost interchangeably called Mount Baring, rises abruptly and majestically above Lake Barclay.
Jennifer Heath/alltrails
The trail is accessible year-round, although the snow during the winter can create some obstacles with downed trees and reaching the trailhead at times can require all-wheel drive.
Corey Goodman/alltrails

The town of Baring is close enough to downtown Seattle (60 miles) and the trail is short enough that in the middle of the summer when the days are long, it is conceivable to complete this hike after a day’s work in the city. At other times, the trail provides reasons for lingering and study the plant life. For updated information about trail conditions, especially during the winter, visit the U.S. Forest Service website for the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest.

 

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