Create an account sign-up-diamond

Start your adventure today.

Already a member? Login

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.
947 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
19.8 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.
Be the first to add a review!
Directions to Trailhead
Google Maps
Apple Maps

Rainbow Lake via Pratt Lake Trail

See Map
Measurement:

Download an interactive map and guide on your phone today!

Table of contents

Rainbow Lake via Pratt Lake Trail is a heavily trafficked out-and-back trail in Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest that provides lovely lake views, wildflowers, and ridgelines. It’s a longer trail at almost 12.4mi, and as such it’s often used for both day trips and backpacking adventures, and the trail can be hiked further or kept short while still being enjoyable.

Route Description for Rainbow Lake via Pratt Lake Trail

The hike to Rainbow Lake is a wonderful breath of fresh air, with streams, lakes, and mountains peeking through the vibrant forest. The wildflowers in summer are great, but the serenity in the shoulder season is also a draw.

The hike begins from the Granite Mountain Trailhead. Take Pratt Lake Trail #1007 north, crossing the stream and then curving back to cross it again, then two more. This is a common theme: there are lots of water crossings on this hike!

After a wide left turn, you’ll traverse west, gaining elevation and crossing countless streams and creeks. The trail curves north again around the foot of the mountain beside you, and you should be able to see Talapus Lake below on your left.

Wrap around the north end of Olallie Lake, heading left under the ridge leading to Pratt Mountain. If you start switchbacking above Olallie, you’ve taken the wrong trail. It’s a straight shot to Rainbow Lake from here.

After enjoying the lakeshore, you can either turn back and retrace your steps, wander down to Mason Lake, or set up camp at one of the nearby sites.

Getting to the Rainbow Lake via Pratt Lake Trail Trailhead

The trailhead for the hike to Rainbow Lake on Pratt Lake Trail is on National Forest Development Road 9034 off I-90.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    Talapus Lake Backcountry Camping

  • When to do:

    April-October

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    No

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    High

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Rainbow Lake via Pratt Lake Trail Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

Reviews

0.0
No reviews
Write a review
×

Add a review

You must be logged in to post a comment.

WE ARE HERE TO HELP

Let someone else do the hard work, book a custom tour in over 85 countries.

Chat with us on our contact page or fill out the form below!

10Adventures Trail App

Take your trails online! Keep track of your route along the way.

Download for free today.

Get travel inspiration and discounts

Join our weekly travel newsletter