With A Striking Blue Lake And Mountain Views, The Little-Known Summit Lake Trail In Washington Is Unexpectedly Magical
Washington hikers: do you hike your favorite few trails every year, or do you prefer to branch out and try some new adventures? Either way, the Summit Lake Trail is sure to become a fast favorite… and it’s one you might want to hike more than once.
Technically, this trail is located outside the borders of Mount Rainier National Park, so you won’t need to enter the park to enjoy it. But since it’s so close, you’ll get all the benefits of the breathtaking mountain views—and that’s just the beginning.
The trailhead is fairly close to the Seattle area, so if you live on the west side, you can easily make a day trip out of this.
Between the clear blue lake and the sweeping mountain views, you'll be addicted.
Depending on the time of year, you might see meadows of wildflowers along the way.
Look below to see the Carbon River Valley 3,000 feet below you.
While you hike, you'll also spot Twin Lake, which does not have a twin (or the impressive landscape waiting at Summit Lake).
While you'll have trail access from May - October, summer is the best time to go. The roads leading to the trail can be backed with snow until early May.
Just make sure to leave no trace and leave the area better than you found it.
What trails are on your hiking list this year?
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Address: Summit Lake Trailhead, Unnamed Rd, Carbonado, WA 98323, USA
