This beautiful hike takes about 3h 30min to complete if you're not stopping to take pictures. The best time to hike Lake 22 is between May through November.
Distance: 7 miles
Price: Northwest Forest Pass or a Day Pass
Dog friendly: Yes
Difficulty: Difficult
One of my favorite hikes in Washington - located east of Granite Falls, Lake 22 takes you through the overgrown forest ending with an amazing view of Mount Pilchuck.
The beginning of the hike starts out with an easy dirt staircase that will have you walking along 22 Creek. About a mile into the hike, you will pass a large waterfall - once you reach the waterfall, the trail gets very steep with several sharp rocks and a few creek crossings. Continue along the trail until you find yourself walking right up to the lake - I recommend taking the short loop around the lake as well.
The hike is rocky most of the way, so I suggest wearing hiking boots; we also crossed several creek beds, so waterproof boots will be best. I would not recommend taking kids on this trail, not only because of the distance but because of the safety of the rocks you will be hiking up and down near the lake.
Being that this is one of the most beautiful hikes in Washington, it does get very busy, and the parking lot fills up fast. Be sure to get there early; otherwise you'll be waiting for a parking spot to open up - parking anywhere other than a parking spot is likely to be towed.
Laura
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