Snow Lake & Source Lake Overlook
Hike out to a large alpine lake on this classic and popular hike. Adding a short trip out to Source Lake gives this route an added twist.
Total Distance: 6.3 miles
Total Ascent: 1700ft (1300ft in; 400ft out)
Highest Point: 4400ft
Total Ascent: 1700ft (1300ft in; 400ft out)
Highest Point: 4400ft
To get there, take I-90 to exit 52. From the exit, take a left onto Alpental Road for about two miles to a large gravel parking lot. The trailhead is across the road to the right. View Google Directions >>
Snow Lake Trail #1013 begins mildly, cutting a long swath through fields of bracken fern and salmonberry before entering a forest of hemlock and fir. At 1.7 miles, the trail meets up with Source Lake Trail #1013 (signed Source Lake Overlook Trail) which was the primary route to Snow Lake before washouts prompted building a more direct route over the cliffs. Stay to the right on the Snow Lake Trail, following the newer route to the lake.
Switchback steeply up the rocky ridge, crossing into the Alpine Lakes Wilderness and reaching the ridgetop at a saddle at 2.5 miles. At the saddle is another junction with the Source Lake Trail #1013.2 to the left; stay right on the Snow Lake Trail to descend to the shores of Snow Lake.There's a lot more to Snow & Source Lakes, and you can learn all about it in Alpine Lakes Wilderness: The Complete Hiking Guide. You'll find a trail map, route descriptions, history, and more for this and many other hikes throughout the State. Help support hikingwithmybrother.com and the work we do by picking up a copy!
Switchback steeply up the rocky ridge, crossing into the Alpine Lakes Wilderness and reaching the ridgetop at a saddle at 2.5 miles. At the saddle is another junction with the Source Lake Trail #1013.2 to the left; stay right on the Snow Lake Trail to descend to the shores of Snow Lake.There's a lot more to Snow & Source Lakes, and you can learn all about it in Alpine Lakes Wilderness: The Complete Hiking Guide. You'll find a trail map, route descriptions, history, and more for this and many other hikes throughout the State. Help support hikingwithmybrother.com and the work we do by picking up a copy!
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