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    Hikes/United States/Washington State/Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

    Melakwa Lake via Denny Creek 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.
    5.5-7.5h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    16.9 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.
    830 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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    The Melakwa Lake via Denny Creek Trail hike is a moderately trafficked out-and-back trail in Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest that is rated as hard. This hike is used both as a day trip and as part of a backpacking trip. The route is relentlessly unshaded, but if you can beat the heat, you’ll be treated to a tranquil experience on the shores of Melakwa Lake.

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    Route Description for Melakwa Lake via Denny Creek Trail

    Melakwa Lake is a very scenic spot, and the hike to reach it via Denny Creek Trail provides the opportunity to enjoy a day trip or plan a longer adventure, making use of the excellent camping available at the lake. The trail is out of the shade for a significant amount of time and tends to be fairly mosquito-laden and rocky, so plan accordingly.

    Begin by hiking north out of Denny Creek Campground. You’ll cross the road anda few arms of the incoming creek as you gain elevation through the river valley. You’ll have a great chance to stop in at several falls as you climb, including Keekwulee and Snowshoe Falls.

    The trail splits just past Snowshoe Falls. It doesn’t necessarily matter which arm you take as they rejoin a short distance later. You’ll soon start climbing switchbacks, gaining more steady elevation. The route straightens out near Hemlock Pass. It’s a bit of a slog to the lake, and you’ll be very ready to dip your feet once you arrive at the shore.

    Enjoy the lower lake, maybe make your way further to the upper lake, and then retrace your steps to return.

    Getting to the Melakwa Lake via Denny Creek Trail Trailhead

    The trailhead for the hike to Melakwa Lake on Denny Creek Trail is at the north of the Denny Creek Campground off I-90.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      Melakwa Lake Backcountry Camping

    • When to do

      April-October

    • Pets allowed

      Yes - On Leash

    • Family friendly

      No

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      Moderate

    • Route Type

      Out and back

    Melakwa Lake via Denny Creek Trail Elevation Graph

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    Melakwa Lake via Denny Creek Trail Reviews

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