Create an account

Start your adventure today.

    0

    Already a member? Login

    Talapus, Olallie, and Pratt Lakes 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.
    19.8 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.
    787 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
    Be the first to add a review!
    Directions to Trailhead

    Talapus, Olallie, and Pratt Lakes are all accessed on this hike, which is 19.8 km long, moderately trafficked, and rated as hard. This can either function as a long day trip to see all three lakes, or you can use this trail to backpack at the backcountry camping sites near the lakes. Each lake is beautiful and serene in its own way, and you can alter this trail to suit your needs if you’d prefer a shorter or longer trip.

    Download the 10Adventures App

    View Talapus, Olallie, and Pratt Lakes Hike on Map

    View Map

    Join our newsletter

    Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers

    Route Description for Talapus, Olallie, and Pratt Lakes Hike

    Why settle for just one lake when you could see three? The network of trails in this area provide easy access to Talapus Lake, Olallie Lake, and Pratt Lake all in one hike. There are variations possible to enjoy just a section of this trail (check out our other routes guides in the area). If the full length is too much, you can shorten your trip, or keep going if you’re backpacking.

    The hike to Talapus and Olallie begins from the parking area, heading into the forest on a wide, well-maintained trail. The trail has been carefully worked on through the years, making it a nice walk.

    Through a collection of old cedars and hemlock, the path steepens a bit, curving around switchbacks next to Talapus Creek. Please don’t cut the switchbacks or deviate from the trail as crews have worked hard to reroute this trail and to keep it in good condition despite the number of people who use this route.

    You’ll reach a fork just before Talapus Creek. You can either go left to reach the campsites near the lake or go right to access the lake itself. Go right (unless you’re camping) and cross the creek on a narrow but sturdy bridge.

    Reaching Talapus Lake, find a good spot for a snack, photos, or a bit of a rest. From here, get back on the trail and switchback through the forest for 1.9 km. At the junction, cross Talapus Creek on the left-side path. The right path goes to Pratt Lake.

    Past the junction, you’ll hike a slightly steeper trail for about 0.3 km, at which point the route levels out. It’s smooth sailing to the shores of Olallie. The trail remains higher up on the valley, and when you’re returning, you’ll be taking the trail on the west side that passes closer to shore.

    Crest the ridge, then descend over switchbacks to Pratt Lake. After resting up on the lakeshore, retrace your steps until you reach the fork between the eastern and western trails that circle Olallie Lake. Take the trail on your right to walk around the other side of the lake—they meet at the other end, and you’ll then retrace your steps to the trailhead.

    Getting to the Talapus, Olallie, and Pratt Lakes Hike Trailhead

    The trailhead for the hike to Talapus Lake, Olallie Lake, and Pratt Lake is at the Talapus Lake Trailhead Parking Lot at the end of Forest Road 9030.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      Talapus Lake Backcountry Camping, Pratt Lake Backcountry Camping

    • When to do

      June-October

    • Pets allowed

      Yes - On Leash

    • Family friendly

      No

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      Moderate

    • Route Type

      Out and back

    Talapus, Olallie, and Pratt Lakes Hike Elevation Graph

    Weather Forecast

    Check Area Weather

    Talapus, Olallie, and Pratt Lakes Hike Reviews

    Add a comment

    You must be logged in to post a comment.

    Nearby Trails

    Nearby Regions

    Get travel inspiration and discounts

    Join our weekly travel newsletter