Chain Lakes & Doelle Lakes
Backpack out to a string of picturesque alpine lakes, set beneath dramatic granite cliffs.
Total Distance: 19.4 miles
Total Ascent: 5100ft (3400ft in; 1700ft out)
Highest Point: 5700ft
Total Ascent: 5100ft (3400ft in; 1700ft out)
Highest Point: 5700ft
Take Highway 2 to the Stevens Pass Ski Area. Park on the south side of the highway. The Pacific Crest Trail #2000 trailhead can be found to the east in the parking lot furthest from the main ski lodge. Privy available. View Google Directions >>
Begin your trek by heading out to Josephine Lake and connecting with the Icicle Creek Trail #1551 just as you reach the lake. Descend and follow the creek through mature forest to the junction with the White Pine Creek Trail #1582 at the 5.7 miles. Continue 1.9 miles to reach the Chain Lakes Trail #1559.
From here, the trail climbs relentlessly, reaching the first of the Chain Lakes after 1.9 miles. Reach the second lake and ideal campsites at the 9.7-mile mark. From the second lake the trail continues upward, passing an access trail out to the shallow third Chain Lake that covers much of the cirque, nearly surrounding a large, tree covered prominence. There's a lot more to Chain Lakes, 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!
From here, the trail climbs relentlessly, reaching the first of the Chain Lakes after 1.9 miles. Reach the second lake and ideal campsites at the 9.7-mile mark. From the second lake the trail continues upward, passing an access trail out to the shallow third Chain Lake that covers much of the cirque, nearly surrounding a large, tree covered prominence. There's a lot more to Chain Lakes, 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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