Ingalls Lake Trail

Autumn is here, and it's time to view the beautiful golden larches of the North Cascades high country! The Ingalls Lake trail has some of the best "larching" in the region, along with gorgeous views of Mounts Stuart, Adams, Rainier, and the Goat Rocks.

To reach the trailhead, drive east on Highway 970 from Cle Elum. After about 7 miles, turn left on Teanaway Road; when the pavement ends, stay straight on Road 9737 (Teanaway Road North Fork). Follow Road 9737 for 9.5 miles until it dead ends at the Ingalls Lake trailhead.

From the trailhead, hike toward Esmeralda Basin, staying right at the first trail junction, .3 miles down the trail. Enjoy views to the south of Mount Adams, Mount Rainier, and the Goat Rocks as you start to ascend. Stay left at the second junction, a mile past the first, and climb up to Ingalls Pass. From here, drop into Headlight Basin, where there are established campsites if you want to make this trip a short backpacking adventure. Traverse the basin, climb a low ridge, and Lake Ingalls will be below you, with rugged Mount Stuart in the background.

Drop down to the lake and enjoy the fall colors and beautiful views. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture those larches! Return to your car the same way you came.

Trail Notes: The trail (#1390) is 9 miles roundtrip, with 2600? of elevation gain. No dogs are allowed on this trail. No camping or fires at Ingalls Lake. This is a popular hike, especially in the late summer and early fall when the colors are changing, so get to the trailhead early! A Northwest Forest Pass is required for this hike.