Clara Lake and Marion Lake

The trailhead is conveniently located at the Mission Ridge Ski Area parking lot. Parking is available year-round, and you won't need any parking passes or fees to access it.

Yes, the trail is considered suitable for dogs. Please remember to keep your dog on a leash and practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out all waste.

This trail offers beauty year-round. You can enjoy vibrant wildflowers from spring into July, stunning golden western larches in the fall, and snowshoeing opportunities in winter. Summer and fall are particularly popular.

No, there are no parking passes or entrance fees required to hike this trail. It's freely accessible from the Mission Ridge Ski Area parking lot.

When hiking in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, always practice Leave No Trace principles: pack out everything you pack in, stay on marked trails, respect wildlife, and properly dispose of waste. Specific regulations regarding campfires, camping, or group sizes may apply depending on the season and area, so it's always wise to check the official forest service website for the latest updates.

The trail begins with a fairly steep ascent featuring rocky switchbacks through a diverse forest. Most of the approximately 900-980 feet of elevation gain occurs in the first mile. After this initial climb, the path moderates, winding through pine forests and open meadows. It's generally well-maintained and includes spectacular rock formations and basalt-covered slopes.

The Clara Lake and Marion Lake trail is an out-and-back route. You will return along the same path after visiting both lakes.

You'll traverse through beautiful pine forests and open meadows that burst with wildflowers in spring and summer. In the fall, golden western larches are a highlight. The trail leads to two pristine alpine lakes, Clara Lake and Marion Lake, nestled among trees and beneath basalt slopes. From higher elevations, you might even catch glimpses of the Wenatchee Valley and the Columbia River.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Squilchuck Trail, the Marion Lake Trail, and the Pipeline Trail.

Despite a rapid, fairly steep initial climb, the trail is widely considered family-friendly and suitable for a range of hikers, including those with young children. The path is generally well-maintained, and the reward of two beautiful lakes makes the effort worthwhile.

An insider tip is to be prepared for a surprisingly steep initial climb; most of the elevation gain happens in the first mile. Once you push past that, the trail moderates. Clara Lake is also a popular spot for backcountry camping if you're looking for an overnight adventure.