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Kendall Peak Lakes Trail is an easily accessible trail located just off I-90 at Snoqualmie Pass. Just one hour from Seattle, this moderate trail ticks all the boxes for a beautiful hike that’s easy to get to. Two lookouts provide panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, lakes, and ski slopes.
Stats:
Accessibility: Very accessible
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 8.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 2125 ft
Route Type: Out & Back
The Trail
The first few miles brings you through an alpine forest. As you gain elevation, you’re greeted by the surrounding mountains through the clearing of the trees. The trail is wide, with a steady incline that winds gently up. Eventually, you’ll hit a T-junction where turning right leads to the first viewpoint and turning left continues on the trail.
On a clear day you can even see Mount Rainier in the distance. A few more miles down you’ll be met with another junction. Going straight brings you to the second viewpoint, going left brings you to the lakes. The second viewpoint is higher in elevation and overlooks Keechelus Lake. During winter, the lakes are frozen and can be snowed over, so make sure to bring snowshoes if you intend to explore around the lake area. Overall, Kendall Peak Lakes trail has great views and is easily accessible from Seattle. There’s even cell service throughout most of the trail. However, it isn’t the most serene hike out there due to the sound of vehicles and presence of the nearby ski slope.
