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.