Valley of the Five Lakes hike

The Valley of the Five Lakes hike is not especially challenging, but there are some steeper sections where holding the hands of young children may be required. Bears frequent the area in spring because of the berry bushes, so take all necessary precautions.

This beautiful hike features five pristine lakes in deep jade and blue, which are an awe-inspiring sight under the surrounding mountain peaks. You’ll begin from the parking lot, following the wide path that leads through the forest.

Continue through the forest on the obvious trail, eventually crossing over the Wabasso Creek Bridge. Shortly after, you’ll start to ascend switchbacks that were added to the trail in 2017 to make this section less steep. There are still sections where you’ll cross small to midsize boulders on the path, so watch your footing.

When you reach the junction, we recommend going clockwise. You’ll quickly reach the first lake. Note that the view is most limited here, so don’t feel like you need to linger before continuing along to the second lake. It gets better and better from here, as the third and fourth are considered to be the most beautiful. Have your camera ready!

The trail reaches the junction once again after the fifth lake. Follow the switchbacks down, cross the creek bridge, and continue through the forest until you reach the parking lot.