Create an account sign-up-diamond

Start your adventure today.

Already a member? Login

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.
742 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
28.0 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.
7-10h
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

Waptus Lake Hike

Measurement:

Download an interactive map and guide on your phone today!

Table of contents

Waptus Lake is a calm, pretty spot, and the trail to get there offers its fair share of excitement. This hike is longer but the elevation gain is fairly spread out, making it doable for intermediate hikers. Note that there is a horse ford across the river that can be unsafe to cross in the early season for shorter hikers. In June, the water can be chest-deep for some. Later in the season, this tends to not be a concern. Bring wading shoes.

Route Description for Waptus Lake Hike

The hike to Waptus Lake tends to be quiet and scenic, and the lake is an excellent spot to settle in for an hour and watch nature go by. This trail can be tougher to complete in the spring or early summer when the water levels at the creek crossing are high, so tread carefully and bring wading shoes and poles. Later in the summer, the water levels tend to drop quite a bit.

Beginning from the trailhead, take the trail to the far right when the route splits three ways. At the first junction, stay left. The grade is fairly level to begin with and then slowly picks up over a few small hills. Level off once more to follow the river valley and then make your final climb to the lake.

After enjoying the view, retrace your steps back to the trailhead.

Getting to the Waptus Lake Hike Trailhead

The trailhead for the Waptus Lake hike is at the end of Trailhead Road north of Salmon la Sac Campground.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    Waptus Lake Camp

  • When to do:

    July-October

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    No

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    Low

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Waptus Lake Hike 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