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    Talapus Lake via Pratt Lake Trail

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Moderate
    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.
    4.5-6.5h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    14.2 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.
    773 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

    Talapus Lake via Pratt Lake Trail is a heavily trafficked out-and-back trail in Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest that is rated as moderate. This trail is often used for both day trips and backpacking adventures, and also provides access to Pratt Lake and Olallie Lake. It’s a nice alternative to the usual approach to Talapus Lake.

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    Route Description for Talapus Lake via Pratt Lake Trail

    Talapus Lake is a pretty lake framed by Bandera Mountain in Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. This hike is a popular choice for advancing beginners and families with older children. Note that this approach has more stream crossings than the regular way to Talapus Lake, so it may be especially wet in the early season and not suitable for smaller children.

    The hike begins from the Granite Mountain Trailhead. Take Pratt Lake Trail #1007 north, crossing the stream and then curving back to cross it again, then two more. This is just the start of many crossings to come, some sturdier than others.

    After a wide left turn, you’ll traverse west across the mountain face, gaining elevation and crossing many streams and creeks. The trail curves north again around the foot of the mountain beside you, and you should be able to see Talapus Lake below on your left.

    Take the Talapus Cutoff Trail #10391 where the trail splits- this means keeping left. If you go right you’ll end up at Olallie. Cross another creek, then make sure you go left where the trail splits to the left and right. A couple of very wide switchbacks lead you down to the shore of Talapus Lake.

    Reaching Talapus Lake, find a good spot for a snack, photos, or a bit of a rest. The lake is calm and picturesque, and you might even see some hikers opting for a swim. From here, get back on the trail and retrace your steps back to the trailhead, or pop over to Olallie Lake to extend your trip.

    Getting to the Talapus Lake via Pratt Lake Trail Trailhead

    The trailhead for the hike to Talapus Lake on the Pratt Lake Trail is on National Forest Development Road 9034 off I-90.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      Talapus Lake Backcountry Camping

    • When to do

      June-October

    • Pets allowed

      Yes - On Leash

    • Family friendly

      Older Children only

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      High

    • Route Type

      Out and back

    Talapus Lake via Pratt Lake Trail Elevation Graph

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    Talapus Lake via Pratt Lake Trail Reviews

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