Klonaqua Lakes

Under-rated and under-visited, explore old-growth forest and alpine lakes on this challenging backpack.

From the Icicle Creek Trailhead, follow the Icicle Creek Trail #1551 into mature forest. Glide on flat trail alongside Icicle Creek for 1.5 miles to French Creek Camp. Soon cross French Creek and just beyond arrive at the French Creek Trail #1595 junction at 1.7 miles. Veer left and trade smooth trail for a steady series of switchbacks, climbing steadily for 0.5 miles before the grade smoothes under the shadow of French Ridge. At the 5.2-mile mark pass the junction with the French Ridge Trail #1564.

Push past the junction for another 1.0 mile to the Snowall Creek Trail #1560. Continue along the French Creek Trail for another mile to finally reach the Klonaqua Lake Trail #1563, 7.2 miles from the trailhead. Turn uphill to begin the steep climb to Lower Klonaqua Lake, navigating the rough, blowdown prone trail as it steadily switchbacks up the mountainside. As you approach the lake, note a large cairn marking the steep bootpath at the 8.6-mile mark. Those looking to visit Upper Klonaqua Lake, this is the most defined approach. Continue onward to reach the sheltered edge of Lower Klonaqua Lake at 9.1 miles.

There's a lot more to Klonaqua 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!