Ira Spring Memorial Trail

Ira Spring Memorial Trail is a heavily trafficked out-and-back trail in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness that is rated as moderate. This trail is named after one of the most steadfast advocates for Washington’s trail system, nature photographer and conservationist Ira Spring. The trail is very popular, especially in the summer months when remarkable wildflower blooms line the route.
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Route Description for Ira Spring Memorial Trail
Ira Spring Memorial Trail is a wonderful hike, offering pretty much everything you would want in an outing: gorgeous mountains, carpets of wildflowers and sunny ridgelines. This trail does get quite busy, but it’s well worth the effort to enjoy the picturesque setting. It honors late conservationist and nature photographer Ira Spring.
The hike begins from the parking lot, passing through thick forest along some leisurely switchbacks. You’ll cross Mason Creek at about 1.3 km. A new bridge has been constructed here to safely ferry hikers across in all seasons, as this was previously a difficult crossing when the water hit its springtime highs.
After crossing the bridge, continue to traverse east. You’ll gain consistent elevation, which increases as you approach the ridge. While this route terminates at a three-way junction with the trails to Bandera Mountain and Mason Lake, you can choose to go a bit further to the lake if you’ve still got gas in the tank. Otherwise, retrace your steps to the trailhead.
Getting to the Ira Spring Memorial Trail Trailhead
The trailhead for the Ira Spring Memorial Trail is at the end of FR-9031, Mason Lake Road.
Route Information
Ira Spring Memorial Trail Elevation Graph
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Nearby Trails
- Putrid Pete’s Peak Trail
- Talapus, Olallie, and Island Lakes Trail
- Mason Lake via Talapus Lake Trail
- Dirty Harry’s Balcony via Birdhouse Trail
- Dirty Harry’s Balcony via Little Balcony
- Dirty Harry’s Peak via Birdhouse Trail
- Mount Defiance and Mason Lake Hike
- McClellan Butte Trail
- Talapus, Olallie, and Pratt Lakes Hike
- Bandera Mountain Summit Trail
- Talapus Lake Trail
- Mason Lake via Ira Spring Trail