Loch Katrine
A hike through working forest to an alpine lake just inside the Alpine Lakes Wilderness.
Total Distance: 7.2 miles
Total Ascent: 1500ft
Highest Point: 3000ft
Total Ascent: 1500ft
Highest Point: 3000ft
To get there, take I-90 to exit #31, taking a left into North Bend. After the outlet malls, take a right on North Bend Way and an almost immediate left onto Ballarat Street. After four miles the road splits, veer left onto the North Fork County Road (Forest Road #57). Continue on what soon becomes a bumpy gravel road for 12.6 miles to a large pullout. The trail begins by following the gated road located here. View Google Directions >>
The hike begins from a large pullout along FR 57, rounding the yellow gate and following the logging road past a hillside of stumps. At 0.7 miles reach a junction, head left and angle upwards. From here, it's 2.9 miles of steadily climbing forest road.
As you approach the 2.9-mile mark there is a large hairpin turn. Instead of switchbacking up the logging road, continue straight ahead into the into the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. Once in the trees a bootpath is readily apparent, dropping slightly and leading to the shore. Within few moments reach Loch Katrine, revealing itself like a lost world completely shielded from the logging activity to left behind. There's a lot more to Loch Katrine, and you can learn all about it in Alpine Lakes Wilderness: The Complete Hiking Guide. You'll find a trail map, route descriptions, history, and more for this and many other hikes throughout the State. Help support hikingwithmybrother.com and the work we do by picking up a copy!
As you approach the 2.9-mile mark there is a large hairpin turn. Instead of switchbacking up the logging road, continue straight ahead into the into the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. Once in the trees a bootpath is readily apparent, dropping slightly and leading to the shore. Within few moments reach Loch Katrine, revealing itself like a lost world completely shielded from the logging activity to left behind. There's a lot more to Loch Katrine, and you can learn all about it in Alpine Lakes Wilderness: The Complete Hiking Guide. You'll find a trail map, route descriptions, history, and more for this and many other hikes throughout the State. Help support hikingwithmybrother.com and the work we do by picking up a copy!
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