Barclay Lake
Central Cascades
Barclay Lake is snow-free, and the trail is generally in good condition, though blowdowns are present and require navigating near the far end of the lake. The road to the trailhead is rough but passable for most vehicles, with parking becoming limited by mid-morning. The creek crossing is dry, and the bridge is out, but water levels are low enough to walk across or use a log.
The lake itself is significantly low, with much of its area replaced by marshy grasslands, though remaining water is cool and clear. Mosquitoes can be bothersome in the evenings, especially in late July and early August. Wildflowers and berries are present in early July. (Reports from June 22 - August 4, 2026).
generated from 93 reports
Conditions at a Glance
Trail
Trail in good condition
11 of 14
Snow
Snow free
14 of 14
Road
Road suitable for all vehicles
9 of 14
Bugs
Bugs were not too bad
6 of 14
Sources
First, we had a great time, despite the heat and smoke (78F and AQI of ~150).We went in early afternoon mid-week. There were 3 other cars at the trailhead, so parking wasn't an issue.The hike was easy...
I hiked to Barclay Lake today as a conditioning hike. It was a quick hike, and I didn't spend a lot of time at the lake. Cloud cover kept Mount Baring from showing off her summit.Many families, couple...
Road is a little washboarded but in good shape otherwise, any car can make it up. Started at 6pm and was surprised to see a full lot and people were parking down the road almost to the gunn peak th. G...
Before I begin this trip report let me once again thank the Forest Service staff and all the volunteers who worked their butts off to restore the road and trail after last December's destructive storm...
We did an overnight backpacking trip, my 5 year old son and I. We got to the trailhead arouns 10am and there were dozens of vehicles already there. The hike up was good, not much water in the river cr...
The trail was pretty easy and not too steep. The only part the was a little steep was the up hill after the small river crossing. I hiked with a 5 year old and he hiked with no problem.
Easy. Got ti spend time in the lake before heading back. Carried swim clothes and Towels.
We had a late morning start from Seattle. Traffic was surprisingly smooth on Hwy 2; we got to the trailhead at 1:30pm to some cars leaving. There were numerous cars parked along the forest road nearin...
Nice easy hike for Sky who is recovering from knee surgery. We arrived about 9 am and there were about 30 cars at the TH. Lots of families with some young kids. Several groups were camping at the lake...
Came on a (holiday) Friday for an afternoon hike. The last couple miles driving to the trailhead are rocky. Arrived at noon and got lucky with one of the front parking spots, probably because someone ...
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