Larch Lake & Chiwaukum Lake

Backpack out through old growth, crossing creeks and traversing basins to finally reach a stunning alpine lake.

Chiwaukum Creek Trail #1571 begins by following a logging road through privately owned property for 1.2 miles. From the end of the road climb above the residences and entering the Alpine Lakes Wilderness at 1.4 miles. Here too are the beginnings of the 2014 burn. Eventually after a short climb up a rocky prominence, veer across the creek on a large log. This is a popular turnaround point. Push further and soon reach the junction with North Fork Chiwaukum Creek Trail #1591 at 5.9 miles. Head right toward Chiwaukum Lake.

From the junction, leave the charred forestlands behind and push out to Glacier Creek. Here find ample camping and the junction with the Glacier Creek Trail #1573 at 7.6 miles. Continue straight ahead on the North Fork Chiwaukum Creek Trail. From this point, it is 1.8 miles to Chiwaukum Lake and most of that stretch is a hard slog through brush-filled boulder field. Catch your first glimpse of Chiwaukum Lake’s sparkling waters at a trailside campsite with excellent views at 9.4 miles.

From here the trail drops toward the water soon reaching the junction with the McCue Ridge Trail #1574. Push onward and upward toward Larch Lake, rounding the end of Chiwaukum Lake and soon leaving the trees to emerge into Ewing Basin. Reach Larch Lake at 11.9 miles. Cup Lake is set in a ledge above the lake, easily seen from Larch Lake. Follow a well-worn boot path on the east side of Larch Lake up through talus to reach the shores.

There's a lot more to Larch Lake, 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!