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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Hard
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
838 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
16.1 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
5-7h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

Hester Lake Trail

Measurement:

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Table of contents

Hester Lake is a deep blue lake nestled into Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, seemingly far away from everything else. The trail was vastly improved after some maintenance, making it much easier to follow than it previously was. Expect little traffic on this 10.0mi hard hike.

Route Description for Hester Lake Trail

Hester Lake Tail got a bit of a facelift recently, and it’s far less overgrown than it once was. Make use of this to enjoy a scenic, lightly trafficked trek to a pretty alpine lake.

The hike begins at the Dutch Miller Gap Trailhead. Take the trail behind the pit toilets as it roughly follows Dingford Creek. You’ll cross over at Pumpkinseed Creek Falls. There is another creek crossing shortly after, and do be advised that the crossing can be impassable in the early spring. In summer, you shouldn’t have an issue.

After crossing the creek, three more crossings follow afterwards. Stay straight at the junction with a trail up to Horseshoe Lake, and then right at the junction with Dingford Creek Trail. Several more creek crossings later, you’ll head up a couple of short switchbacks turns to Hester Lake, perched up above.

After enjoying the lake, you’ll return on the same trail you came in on.

Getting to the Hester Lake Trail Trailhead

The trailhead for Hester Lake Trail is at the end of National Forest Development Road 5620 at the Dutch Miller Gap Trailhead.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    No

  • When to do:

    July-October

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    No

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    Low

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Hester Lake Trail Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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