Rainy Lake Trail 310

 

Access: From Winthrop drive State Route 20 west to Rainy Pass.  Park in the south parking lot.

Route Description: This is an easy, paved trail with no elevation gain. The trail leaves the parking lot and contours around a sidehill to reach the north end of Rainy Lake, where the trail ends at the paved picnic spot with benches.

Highlights: High cliffs surround the lake with waterfalls cascading down to the lake. In the fall, the golds and reds of the changing shrubs and trees are spectacular. The walk to the lake takes only 20 minutes and is a refreshing break for those driving the North Cascades Highway. There are cutthroat trout in the lake and fishing is allowed (a Washington State license is required and all state game laws apply).

Specific Hazards/Difficulties: This trail gets heavy use. Visitors should be careful to stay on the trail to avoid damaging fragile areas.

 

Length: 0.9 miles/1.45 km.

Season: Late June - early October.

Maps: USGS: Washington Pass.
             Green Trails: Washington Pass.

Restrictions: Not open to horses, bicycles, or motorized vehicles. No camping allowed at the lake.

Trailhead Facilities: Northwest Forest Pass reguired. Toilets and picnic tables.