Larch Lake from High Camp Hike

Larch Lake is a wonderful spot, especially when the mountains receive their first dusting of snow and the larches turn golden. This route guide begins from High Camp, where hikers often book cabins to make access to the lake easier. While you could hike in from the High Pass trailhead, that is a longer route.

From camp, take Mac Express to Sunset Trail. You’ll gain McCue Ridge, where atop the ridge, the trail ends and you’ll need to briefly follow tape in the trees to another trail. Keep heading west along the ridge to a left turn onto trail #1574. This takes you down to Chiwaukum Lake. Hike along the creek into an open area that is bright red in the fall, where you’ll take the last climb to Larch Lake basin. After soaking up the views, you’ll retrace your steps back to High Camp.