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

    Mount Defiance and Mason Lake Hike

    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.
    5.5-8h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    15.1 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.
    1,078 m
    User Ratings
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    Mount Defiance and Mason Lake is a heavily trafficked out-and-back hike in Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest that is rated as hard. This leg burner of a hike is broken up nicely by a rest on the shores of Mason Lake before pushing on for the summit of Mount Defiance, where splendid views over the surrounding peaks and forests can be enjoyed.

    This trail gets busy, so we recommend arriving early to secure parking.

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    Route Description for Mount Defiance and Mason Lake Hike

    The view from Mount Defiance is splendid, and Mason Lake is the perfect partway rest stop. This hike is a solid effort, but between the great workout and the peaks-for-miles view at the summit, you’ll be plenty satisfied by the time you’re back at the trailhead.

    Start from the Ira Spring Trailhead, taking Ira Spring Trail as it crosses Mason Creek and switchbacks up the base of the ridge. Roughly following above Mason Creek, you’ll descend down to Mason Lake. Rest up here before heading between Lake Kulla Kulla and a smaller unnamed lake to approach Mount Defiance.

    The summit slog is tiring, with a few switchbacks followed by a traverse to the junction where you’ll make the final ascent. From the peak, retrace your steps back down to the lake and then to the trailhead.

    Getting to the Mount Defiance and Mason Lake Hike Trailhead

    The Mount Defiance and Mason Lake Trail begins at the western terminus of Mason Lake Road at the Ira Spring Trailhead. There is parking here.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      Mason Lake Backcountry Camping

    • When to do

      June-October

    • Pets allowed

      Yes - On Leash

    • Family friendly

      No

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      High

    • Route Type

      Out and back

    Mount Defiance and Mason Lake Hike Elevation Graph

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    Mount Defiance and Mason Lake Hike Reviews

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