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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.
Moderate
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.
502 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
9.5 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.
3-4.5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Anderson Lake and Watson Lake Hike

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Table of contents

The hike to Anderson Lake and Watson Lake is an out-and-back trail in Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest that is rated as moderate. This trail is a great day trip, but expect to see many new backpackers heading to the campsites near the lake. This trail is rife with mosquitoes, so good spray is a must. Take your time on the road to the trailhead, it’s very potholed.

Route Description for Anderson Lake and Watson Lake Hike

Anderson Lake and Watson Lake are the stars of this trail, but you’ll actually be able to enjoy 7 lakes on this pretty hike. It’s a wonderful first backpacking trip, but it also delivers as a moderate, scenic day trip. Be warned, though—the mosquitoes can be very bad on this trail.

The hike begins from the end of the forest road. Follow the obvious trail roughly southeast through the forest. At the first junction, stay left. At the second junction, both trails provide access to different parts of the lakes area. We recommend going left to check out Lower Anderson Lake, then backtracking and going to the right to see both Watson Lakes. The trail to your right en route to Watson Lakes leads to the Upper Anderson Lake Campsites.

Once you’re done exploring, get back on the main trail and retrace your steps to the parking area.

Getting to the Anderson Lake and Watson Lake Hike Trailhead

The trailhead for Anderson Lake and Watson Lake is at the eastern terminus of National Forest Development Road 1107.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    Watson Lake Campsites, Upper Anderson Lake Campsites

  • When to do:

    May-October

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage:

    Good

  • Crowd Levels:

    High

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Anderson Lake and Watson Lake Hike Elevation Graph

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