Hidden Lake Trail
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Hidden Lake Trail
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Hidden Lake is a small lake just above the shores of Lake Wenatchee that can be reached on an easy, short trail. It’s a family-friendly hike that can be extended if you want to head down to Lake Wenatchee or to the Glacier View Campground on the shore.
The hike is great for young kids thanks to its mostly flat grade, and it makes for a splendid snowshoeing trip in the winter months. The trail to the lake was relocated a few years ago and the new trail is wide, even, and easy to follow. Expect heavy traffic, especially on summer weekends. Try to arrive early in the day if you want to beat the crowds.
Getting there
The trailhead for the Hidden Lake Trail is in a parking area off Glacier View Campground USFS 6607 Road.
About
| Backcountry Campground | No |
| When to do | April-September |
| Pets allowed | Yes - On Leash |
| Family friendly | Yes |
| Route Signage | Average |
| Crowd Levels | High |
| Route Type | Out and back |
Hidden Lake Trail
Elevation Graph
Weather
Hidden Lake Trail Description
Hidden Lake is tucked up from Lake Wenatchee, separated by the old Hidden Lake Trail. The trail to the lake is quick and easy and very kid-friendly. After a complete reroute and a moved trailhead, the new trail is wide, even, and very easy to follow.
Expect heavy traffic on this trail, especially on nice weekends. If you want to stay awhile, book in at the Glacier View Campground which is just under Hidden Lake. This is also a great trail in the wintertime for beginner snowshoers.
The first 0.5 miles of the trail is ADA-accessible.
The hike begins from the parking area. Stroll up the easy path, looking for the cave trees, two trees that have “caves” in them thanks to lightning strikes years ago.
You’ll head generally west, getting a peek of Lake Wenatchee and Dirty Face Mountain as you walk. Enjoy the tall cedars and fir trees that surround you.
Cross a stream, which is outfitted with logs to make a makeshift bridge. It’s an easy crossing. Shortly after the stream, look up a small hill where the lake access is. Hike up and over the knob to the lake.
Relax on the shores of the lake. If you want to get down to Lake Wenatchee or the campground, look north for the cut pine tree. This indicates the old trail. You can head down here to the lake, or you can use this trail to make a loop, finishing on the campground access road.
Whether you loop or not, you’ll have a nice time at HIdden Lake before returning to the trailhead.
Hiking Route Highlights
Hidden Lake
Hidden up above Lake Wenatchee is Hidden Lake, a small lake in the trees. This little lake is easily accessed from the road or from Lake Wenatchee and is a popular destination for families year-round, either as a hiking or snowshoeing destination. The trail to the lake was reworked to allow for easier access, with half a mile of the trail now being ADA-accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I swim at Hidden Lake?
Yes, swimming is permitted in Hidden Lake.
Can you camp at Hidden Lake?
There is no camping at the lake, but Glacier View Campground is just below the lake.
Insider Hints
Remember your Northwest Forest Pass for this hike.
The trail down to Lake Wenatchee is steep, so it’s not a great choice for very young children.
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