Kelcema Lake Trail

The hike to Kelcema Lake is quite short, usually taking around 10-15 minutes to reach the lake itself. Most visitors spend more time enjoying the serene lake environment, relaxing, wading, or exploring the shore.

The trail is best enjoyed from late spring through early fall. Early in the season, you can experience an 'amazing flower show' in the marshy meadow. Late summer and early fall may offer huckleberries. In winter, the trail can be covered in snow and ice, requiring micro-spikes, and the access road may become part of a snowshoe route.

The trail is relatively short but natural and can be rugged. Expect a path with rocks, roots, and mud, especially in certain sections. You'll traverse a marshy meadow before entering trees, where you'll encounter unique exposed glacial bedrock, giving the impression of a stone path.

Yes, this trail is an excellent option for families with children and beginner backpackers due to its short length and minimal elevation gain. It's generally rated as easy to moderate, making it accessible for those new to hiking.

Yes, a valid recreation pass is required for parking at the trailhead within the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. You can find more information about passes on the USDA Forest Service website.

While the trail is generally considered dog-friendly, it's always best to check current regulations for the Boulder River Wilderness and Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest regarding leash requirements and pet waste disposal to ensure a responsible visit.

The trailhead is accessed via Forest Service Road 4052. This final four-mile stretch is a rough, potholed gravel road. A high-clearance vehicle and all-wheel drive are highly recommended for a more comfortable and safe journey to the parking area.

Kelcema Lake is notable for being a beautiful subalpine lake that remains far less crowded than other popular hikes along the Mountain Loop Highway. It offers a peaceful setting, ideal for solitude, and is well-suited for beginner backpackers with established campsites and a backcountry toilet.

The area around Kelcema Lake, once an old Boy Scout camp, offers several established campsites and a backcountry toilet, making it suitable for overnight stays. There are no other developed facilities like cafes or shops directly at the lake.

Yes, the route to Kelcema Lake Trail also passes through sections of the Deer Creek Pass Trail and the Deer Creek Road. The primary path is the Kelcema Lake Trail itself.

Yes, overnight camping is permitted at Kelcema Lake. The area, formerly a Boy Scout camp, has several established campsites and a backcountry toilet, making it a good spot for a first overnight backpacking trip.