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    Mason Lake via Talapus Lake Trail

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Hard
    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
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    20.1 km
    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.
    902 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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    Directions to Trailhead

    The hike to Mason lake on Talapus Lake Trail feels like the land of a thousand lakes! This is a heavily trafficked hard hike in Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, mostly due to its 20km distance. Parts of the trail are wide and easy to follow and then later sections get a bit more narrow, so watch your GPS.

    There is spotty reception at the trailhead and to the lake, so make sure you have your permit and route sorted before arriving.

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    Route Description for Mason Lake via Talapus Lake Trail

    Talapus Lake is a pretty, tree-clad mountain lake in Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. Reaching the lake is fairly easy, with a nice, gradual incline continuing for the duration of the ascent. Past Talapus, this route takes you to seemingly endless lakes, including Olallie, Rainbow, Blazer, and more.

    The hike begins from the parking area, heading into the forest on a wide, well-maintained trail. The trail steepens a bit, curving around switchbacks next to Talapus Creek. Just before Talapus Creek, you’ll reach a fork. Go right and cross the creek on a bridge.

    Continue to Olallie Lake on the trail to the left of the creek, taking a boot trail up from the north end of Olallie to the Pratt Lake Trail. Follow the ridgeline under Pratt Mountain and stay right just before Rainbow Lake. Pass by all the little lakes and ponds to Mason Lake, where you’ll stay left to approach the shore.

    To return, go back the same way you came in.

    Getting to the Mason Lake via Talapus Lake Trail Trailhead

    The trailhead for Talapus Lake Trail is off FR 9030. Follow the road around to the right at a junction and continue to the road’s end.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      Talapus Lake Backcountry, Mason Lake Backcountry

    • When to do

      May-October

    • Pets allowed

      Yes - On Leash

    • Family friendly

      No

    • Route Signage

      Good

    • Crowd Levels

      High

    • Route Type

      Out and back

    Mason Lake via Talapus Lake Trail Elevation Graph

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    Mason Lake via Talapus Lake Trail Reviews

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