Lake 22

North Cascades

updated yesterday

As of May 11, 2026, Lake 22 conditions are mostly snow-free on the trail up to the lake, though patchy snow and slush may persist on the far side of the lake (reported May 10). The trail itself is in great condition, with some reports noting occasional muddy or rocky sections. Water crossings are generally shallow and manageable (May 10, May 2).

Parking is extremely limited and fills early, often by 8 AM, with cars frequently parking along the highway (May 10, May 3). Trail etiquette issues, including trash and unleashed dogs, are noted (May 10, May 9). Toilets may lack toilet paper; BYOTP is advised (May 5, April 20).

generated from 115 reports

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North Cascades > Mountain Loop Highway

We arrived just after 8 to a full parking lot but we were lucky enough to snag a spot. Toilets were gross, no tp. Invest in a Kula Cloth, people! The trail was in great shape. Mild amounts of trash on...

North Cascades > Mountain Loop Highway

The trail condition was great and the intermittent snow was only when it is closer to Lake 22. We arrived at the trail around 9:30 am and the parking lot was already full with people parking illegally...

North Cascades > Mountain Loop Highway

What can I say, it's Lake 22. When I first hiked it in 1970 it was just a trail, no stairs or bridges, no trail around the lake, and you parked on the road. In the years since there have been a lot of...

North Cascades > Mountain Loop Highway

Not much to add to previous reports.8am on a Tuesday there were 6 cars in the lot, 2:30 the lot was almost full.Still a few swamp lanterns and trillium in bloom and plenty of yellow violets and marsh ...

North Cascades > Mountain Loop Highway

This one has been on my list for years since moving to WA, but I was always hesitant due to how over-shared it is on social media. However, it's truly a wonderful spot and a fairly moderate climb to s...

North Cascades > Mountain Loop Highway

I would say this trail is moderate. Well worth it at the end but I wouldn’t say it’s beginner friendly.

North Cascades > Mountain Loop Highway

Trail is entirely snow free. There are some parts of the trail that are shallow creek crossings -- some parts are shallow enough that you can just step through if your shoes are good enough, some part...

North Cascades > Mountain Loop Highway

Have you ever wanted to catch up with a friend -- perhaps an ex -- but every time you try to make plans, someone is sick or traveling or the weather is too gnarly? And then after months of trying, you...

North Cascades > Mountain Loop Highway

We arrived at the parking lot around 1 PM as the morning groups were getting back and were lucky to grab a parking spot as somebody pulled out. There was cars parked along the road for about half a mi...

North Cascades > Mountain Loop Highway

We arrived at 10:30 am and the parking lot was full. There is street parking available that would be about an additional 5 minute walk to the trailhead.The trail is beautiful and well maintained with ...

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