Melakwa Lake via Denny Creek Trail
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
Melakwa Lake via Denny Creek Trail Elevation Graph
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