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Hikes/United States/Washington State/Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest
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.
902 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
20.1 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.
6-8.5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Mason Lake via Talapus Lake Trail

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Table of contents

The hike to Mason lake on Talapus Lake Trail feels like the land of a thousand lakes! This is a heavily trafficked hard hike in Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, mostly due to its 20km distance. Parts of the trail are wide and easy to follow and then later sections get a bit more narrow, so watch your GPS. There is spotty reception at the trailhead and to the lake, so make sure you have your permit and route sorted before arriving.

Route Description for Mason Lake via Talapus Lake Trail

Talapus Lake is a pretty, tree-clad mountain lake in Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. Reaching the lake is fairly easy, with a nice, gradual incline continuing for the duration of the ascent. Past Talapus, this route takes you to seemingly endless lakes, including Olallie, Rainbow, Blazer, and more.

The hike begins from the parking area, heading into the forest on a wide, well-maintained trail. The trail steepens a bit, curving around switchbacks next to Talapus Creek. Just before Talapus Creek, you’ll reach a fork. Go right and cross the creek on a bridge.

Continue to Olallie Lake on the trail to the left of the creek, taking a boot trail up from the north end of Olallie to the Pratt Lake Trail. Follow the ridgeline under Pratt Mountain and stay right just before Rainbow Lake. Pass by all the little lakes and ponds to Mason Lake, where you’ll stay left to approach the shore.

To return, go back the same way you came in.

Getting to the Mason Lake via Talapus Lake Trail Trailhead

The trailhead for Talapus Lake Trail is off FR 9030. Follow the road around to the right at a junction and continue to the road’s end.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    Talapus Lake Backcountry, Mason Lake Backcountry

  • When to do:

    May-October

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    No

  • Route Signage:

    Good

  • Crowd Levels:

    High

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Mason Lake via Talapus Lake Trail Elevation Graph

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