Explore Diablo Lake Trail: tips, wildlife, FAQs for Washington's hiking gem.
Planning a hike on the Diablo Lake Trail in Washington? This guide has got you covered.
The Diablo Lake Trail is a 7.6 route that offers hikers stunning views of mountains, Diablo Lake, and diverse landscapes. You’ll walk through forests, meadows, and by the water, giving you a range of experiences in just one trail.
Whether you’re an avid hiker or new to the trails, it’s essential to be prepared. This trail presents challenges like elevation shifts, rocky patches, and changing weather conditions. To have the best experience:
- Wear suitable clothing and sturdy footwear.
- Familiarize yourself with the trail map beforehand.
- Plan for breaks, especially if you’re not used to this terrain.
Armed with knowledge and the right gear, you’re set to enjoy one of Washington’s finest trails. Having done this hike 20 odd time over the last decade, we have put together this guide to help you plan!
The trail
The Diablo Lake Trail is a beautiful, moderate trail that follows the shore of Diablo Lake in North Cascades National Park. The views of the lake and surrounding mountains are absolutely stunning, and there are plenty of opportunities to take in the scenery. The
trail is well-maintained and relatively flat, making it a great option for families or those looking for an easy hike. There are several access points along the lake, so you can choose to make the hike as long or short as you like.
The Diablo Lake Trail is a beautiful and popular trail in Washington’s North Cascades National Park. The trailhead is located at the end of State Route 20, about 3 hours from Seattle. The trail is approximately 9 miles long and takes hikers through old-growth forests, along the shores of Diablo and Ross Lakes, and up to Cascade Pass.
The trail is well-marked and easy to follow. There are several places along the way where hikers can stop to rest or take in the views. The first few miles of the trail are relatively flat, but the last few miles are quite steep. Hikers should be prepared for some elevation gain.
At Cascade Pass, hikers will be rewarded with stunning views of Mt. Shuksan, Mt. Triumph, and other peaks in the Cascades range. This is a popular destination for day-hikers, so expect to see other people on the trail.
Length:
The Diablo Lake Trail is 7.6 miles (12.2 km) roundtrip / 1,300 foot (120 m) elevation gain.
Difficulty:
The trial is rated as Moderate.
Elevation Gain:
The trail gains about 1300 feet (120 meters) of elevation from the start to the lake’s edge, with several gradual hills along the way.
What to Expect:
Along the way, you’ll be treated to stunning views of Diablo Lake and the surrounding mountains, plus several access points where you can take a break and admire the view. The trail also crosses several creeks and rivers, so it’s essential to wear appropriate footwear that can handle crossing wet terrain. Wildflowers are abundant during the summer months, making it a great spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike!
Trailhead:
The trailhead for the Diablo Lake Trail is located at the Diablo Lake Trailhead, which can be accessed from Highway 20. There is a large parking lot and restroom facilities available.
How to prepare
Before heading out on the Diablo Lake Trail, it’s important to be prepared. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
–Wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers. The trail can be rocky and uneven in places, so sturdy shoes are a must. And since the weather can change quickly in the mountains, it’s best to dress in layers that you can add or remove as needed.
-Bring plenty of water and snacks. There are no services along the trail, so you’ll need to bring everything you need with you. A good rule of thumb is to pack one liter of water per person, per day. And don’t forget some snacks to keep your energy up!
-Check the weather forecast before you go. The weather can be unpredictable in the mountains, so it’s always a good idea to check the forecast before heading out. This will help you know what to expect and plan accordingly.
-Be aware of your surroundings. The trail is beautiful, but it’s also home to wildlife. Keep an eye out for bears, deer, and other animals while you hike. And if you see any signs of danger, make sure to turn back immediately and find a safe route.
-Pack an emergency kit. It’s always a good idea to bring a small first aid kit with you, just in case of an emergency. And if you’re heading out overnight, make sure to pack extra food, water, and warm clothes in case your plans change.
By following these tips and being prepared, you can enjoy a safe and memorable hike on the Diablo Lake Trail.
The Views
If you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life, the diablo lake trail is the perfect place for you. Located in the North Cascades National Park, this scenic trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner, there’s a trail for you. Here’s what you can expect on the diablo lake trail:
-Idyllic scenery: The diablo lake trail winds its way through some of the most beautiful scenery in the North Cascades. You’ll be able to enjoy views of towering mountains, pristine lakes, and lush forests.
-Plenty of wildlife: The diablo lake trail is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, bears, and eagles. Keep your eyes peeled and you might spot one!
-Challenging terrain: The diablo lake trail is not for the faint of heart. There are steep and rocky sections, so come prepared with proper footwear and plenty of water.
-Peaceful solitude: The diablo lake trail is one of the most secluded places in the North Cascades. It’s perfect for those who want to get away from it all and find a little peace and quiet.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable nature experience, make sure to add the diablo lake trail to your list!
Wildlife SIghtings on the Diablo lake trail
The Diablo Lake Trail is a scenic trail that runs along the shore of Diablo Lake in the North Cascades National Park in Washington state. The trail offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains and is a popular destination for hikers, campers, and nature lovers.
Wildlife sightings are common on the trail, and visitors may see deer, elk, bighorn sheep, eagles, ospreys, and other animals. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, and there are several places to stop along the way to enjoy the views or take a break.
For avid bird watchers, Diablo Lake Trail is a great place to spot some rare and beautiful birds. Ospreys, bald eagles, common loons, and peregrine falcons are all known to frequent the area. Other wildlife commonly seen on the trail include black bears, cougars, marmots, and mule deer. The lake also serves as a migratory stopover for many species of waterfowl, including ducks and geese.
Visitors should be aware that they may encounter wildlife while hiking the Diablo Lake Trail. It is important to stay on the designated trails and give wild animals their space. If you see an animal, remain calm and do not approach or attempt to feed it. Move away slowly in the direction you came from and use binoculars or telephoto lenses for viewing wildlife from a safe distance.
Where to Stay
There are a few different options for places to stay while you’re exploring the Diablo Lake Trail. You can choose to camp at one of the many primitive campsites along the trail, or you can opt for a more comfortable stay at one of the nearby lodges or inns.
If you’re planning on camping, be sure to bring all the necessary gear with you. This includes a tent, sleeping bag, and camp stove. You’ll also need to purchase a wilderness permit from the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest before heading out.
If you’d prefer a more comfortable place to stay, there are several lodges and inns located near the trailhead. The North Cascades Lodge is a popular option, as it’s just a short drive from the trailhead. There are also several camping cabins available for rent in the area.
FREQUENTLY asked questions
What is the Diablo Lake Trail?
The Diablo Lake Trail is a scenic trail that winds along the shores of Diablo Lake in the North Cascades National Park in Washington state. The trail offers breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains and is a popular destination for hikers, campers, and fishermen.
How long is the Diablo Lake Trail?
The Diablo Lake Trail is a popular trail located in North Cascades National Park in Washington state. The trail is 7.6 miles long and leads to the picturesque Diablo Lake. The lake is surrounded by mountains and offers spectacular views. The trail is rated as moderate and is typically completed in 3-4 hours.
What is the elevation gain of the Diablo Lake Trail?
The Diablo Lake Trail is a relatively easy hike with an elevation gain of only about 1300 feet (120 meters). The trailhead is located at the north end of the Ross Dam Spillway, just before the dam itself. From the trailhead, the trail follows the Spillway for a short distance before turning east and climbing up to Diablo Lake. The lake is nestled in a cirque beneath Mt. Formidable and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
What are the best times of year to hike the Diablo Lake Trail?
The best times of year to hike the Diablo Lake Trail are during the warmer months, from May through September. During this time, the weather is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and boating. The trail is also accessible during this time, and the lake is a popular spot for kayakers and canoeists. However, it’s important to note that the water in the lake stays freezing even during the summer due to glacial waters. In the winter, the trail can be more challenging due to snow and ice, and hikers should be cautious of avalanche tracks. It’s also worth noting that the Diablo Lake Trail is an excellent choice year-round, but it’s a particularly good option for an early season hike in the stunning North Cascades National Park, much of which is inaccessible during the winter and spring. Overall, the best time to hike the Diablo Lake Trail depends on personal preference and the type of experience one is looking for.
What should I bring with me on the Diablo Lake Trail?
Assuming you will be doing the full loop, you will need to bring enough food and water for at least three days. It is also a good idea to bring a stove and some kind of shelter, as there are no facilities on the trail. In terms of clothing, layers are always a good idea in the mountains, as the weather can change quickly. Finally, make sure you have some kind of map and compass, as cell service is spotty at best in this area.
Are there any fees to hike the Diablo Lake Trail?
There are no fees to hike the Diablo Lake Trail. However, there is a $5 per car parking fee at the trailhead. There is a $10 ferry fee for each hiker that takes the ferry from Ross Lake Resort to Diablo Lake Trailhead.
How do I get to the Diablo Lake Trailhead?
The Diablo Lake Trailhead is located at the end of State Route 20, about two hours east of Seattle. To get there, take I-90 east to Exit 85 and follow State Route 20 for about 60 miles. The trailhead is on the left side of the road, just before the bridge over Diablo Lake.
Where can I camp near the Diablo Lake Trail?
The Diablo Lake Trail is a beautiful, scenic trail located in the North Cascades of Washington State. The trailhead is located at the Ross Dam Trailhead, just south of the town of Newhalem. From here, the trail winds its way along the shore of Diablo Lake for approximately 5 miles before reaching its end at the Cascade Pass trail junction.
There are a number of great camping options available near the Diablo Lake Trail. One option is to camp at the Ross Dam Campground, which is located just a short distance from the trailhead. This campground offers 22 sites for tents or RVs and includes flush toilets and drinking water. Another option is to camp at Goodell Creek Campground, which is located about 2 miles from the trailhead. This campground has 12 sites for tents or RVs and also includes flush toilets and drinking water.
Finally, wilderness camping is also an option for those looking to really get away from it all. There are a number of designated campsites along the trail where hikers can set up their tents for a night or two of primitive camping. These sites are first-come, first-serve and do not have any amenities, so come prepared!
Can I swim in Diablo Lake?
Yes! In fact, swimming in Diablo Lake is one of the best ways to cool off on a hot day. However, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, the water is cold – even in the summer – so be prepared for a shock when you first jump in. Second, the lake is fed by snowmelt from the surrounding mountains, so the water level can fluctuate throughout the year. When swimming, be sure to stay within your depth limit and never swim alone.
What city is closest to Diablo Lake?
The city closest to Diablo Lake is Seattle, which is about a 2-hour drive from the trailhead. There are also a few smaller towns in the area, such as Marblemount and Rockport, that are closer to the trailhead but may not have all the amenities of a larger city like Seattle.
What are some other popular hiking trails in the north cascades national park?
Cascade Pass and Sahale Arm: This is a challenging hike with high alpine views and jaw-dropping scenery. The trail is 11.7 miles out-and-back with a total elevation gain of 4,120 feet. The starting elevation is 4,000 feet, and the elevation at Sahale Glacier Camp is 7,600 feet. The hike takes an average of 7 hours to complete.
Maple Pass Loop: This trail is a 7.2-mile loop near Stehekin, Washington, with a total elevation gain of 2,020 feet. The highest point is 6,650 feet, and the calculated difficulty is moderate/hard. The trail takes an average of 4 hours and 9 minutes to complete.
Hidden Lake: This is a 5.4-mile out-and-back trail in Glacier National Park, Montana, with a total elevation gain of 1,325 feet. The highest elevation is 7,152 feet, and the trail difficulty rating is 8.05 (moderate). The hike takes an average of 3 hours and 30 minutes to complete.
Desolation Peak: This trail is a 9.4-mile hike from the Desolation boat dock, which requires hikers to arrange water taxi transport to the boat dock or a hike in. If starting from the East Bank trailhead at Highway 20, the hike is much longer, at around 46 miles roundtrip. The trail is steep and strenuous, climbing 4,400 feet to the lookout perched on the top of the peak and at the northern edge of the country. The hike takes an average of 6-8 hours to complete.
Thornton Lake: This is a 9.6-mile out-and-back trail with a total elevation gain of 2,400 feet. The highest elevation is 4,800 feet, and the trail difficulty rating is moderate. The hike takes an average of 5-6 hours to complete.
Blue Lake: This is a 4.4-mile out-and-back trail with a total elevation gain of 1,175 feet. The highest elevation is 4,600 feet, and the trail difficulty rating is moderate. The hike takes an average of 2-3 hours to complete.
Sourdough Mountain: This is a 10.2-mile out-and-back trail with a total elevation gain of 4,000 feet. The highest elevation is 6,000 feet, and the trail difficulty rating is hard. The hike takes an average of 6-8 hours to complete.
Pierce Mountain: This is a 7.6-mile out-and-back trail with a total elevation gain of 3,000 feet. The highest elevation is 6,000 feet, and the trail difficulty rating is hard. The hike takes an average of 5-6 hours to complete.
Buckner Mountain: This is a 12.6-mile out-and-back trail with a total elevation gain of 6,000 feet. The highest elevation is 9,112 feet, and the trail difficulty rating is hard. The hike takes an average of 8-10 hours to complete.
Easy Pass: This is a 7.2-mile out-and-back trail with a total elevation gain of 2,800 feet. The highest elevation is 6,500 feet, and the trail difficulty rating is hard. The hike takes an average of 5-6 hours to complete.
These are just a few of the many incredible hiking trails in North Cascades National Park. The park is known for its rugged wilderness and epic hikes both in distance and scenery.
Conclusion
The Diablo Lake Trail in 2023 is an incredible experience for anyone looking to explore the beauty of Washington state. Whether you are looking for a peaceful hike or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, there is something here for everyone. With regular lake access and plenty of breathtaking views, this trail is guaranteed to be one of your most memorable experiences this year. So what are you waiting for? Pack up your gear and make the journey to Diablo Lake today!
