Dewey Lake Trail

The Dewey Lake Trail is a perfect hike when done in the right season, lined with blooming flowers and leading to a sun-warmed lake just begging you to swim. It requires no technical skill and offers the chance to extend your hike along a section of the Pacific Crest Trail.

We recommend waiting until mid-July to do this hike. Earlier in the season, there is a serious risk of avalanche from the north Naches Peak chutes. Additionally, the trail is often snowy or extremely muddy until warmer weather comes, and the bugs can be overwhelming. Don’t take it off your list, just come in the peak summer season for the best experience!

The trail begins from the PCT trail at a signed trailhead. You’ll be able to smell the lupine before you enter a flower-filled meadow. Turn left and follow the trail for 0.2mi to the crossing over Highway 410. Begin circling around the north side of Naches Peak. Cross over a couple of gullies before entering a basin containing a small tarn.

Continue on the PCT, taking care to stay off the small, informal trails around the tarn, climbing to a viewpoint at 1.7mi. Look for Dewey Lake and a small unnamed lake in the valley.

Continue to the junction with Naches Peak Loop. If you want to sneak in some great views of Mount Rainier, take the Naches Peak Loop Trail for 0.1mi west to a viewpoint, then return to the trail.

You’ll descend 700ft to Dewey Lake on a trail that is initially in bumpy condition but smooths out soon enough. Once you’re at 2.9mi, you’ll find two unsigned trails in the lake basin. The trail to the right goes around the unnamed lake to two campsites and then loops around Dewey Lake. The second trail to the left goes to another campsite and then a beach, which is great for those wanting to take a swim. You can explore the area as you please before retracing your steps to the parking lot.