My annual pilgrimage to the Gorge for LaborDave brought me among the Enchantments in Washington state. Hailed as one of the more incredible portions of the Cascade range, I made it a point to sneak in a couple hikes while driving through on my way to Seattle. The first trek I did was a hike to Barclay Lake, a great introduction for someone who’s been off trail all summer like I have.
About Hiking to Barclay Lake in Washington
Located in the Mount Baker Snoqualmie National Forest off of US Highway 2, the hike to Barclay Lake is a simpler one for the area. Popular for families with younger children, amateur hikers and those looking for an introduction to backcountry camping, it’s a perfect trek to experience the enchanting wilderness of Washington state. Beginning at around 2300 feet in elevation, a roundtrip hike on this out-and-back trail is just over 4 miles with an easy elevation gain of +472 feet. It took me about 1.5 hours of moving time to complete the trail.
It’s important to note that a Northwest Forest Pass is required to park at the trailhead. Click here to buy your pass online or purchase one at a forest service station/local retailer.
Tips for Hiking to Barclay Lake
The trail to Barclay Lake is well-shaded with tree coverage but that also brings more bugs. Come prepared with bug spray as we experienced a slew of biting flies. If you want to camp overnight at the lake, embark on the hike earlier in the day to claim your spot as there are only 3 backcountry sites here.
As with all trails, be sure to follow the“Leave No Trace” principles while hiking/camping at Barclay Lake.
Read More: Leave No Trace: The 7 Rules of the Backcountry
Hiking to Barclay Lake in Washington
Distance: 4.2 Miles
Type: Out & Back
Elevation Gain: +472 Feet
Best Time to Hike: May – October
Features: Alpine lake & wildlife. Backcountry campsites. Good for kids and dogs allowed on leash.
Getting to the Barclay Lake Trailhead
While driving along US Highway 2, you can find the road to the Barclay Lake trailhead in the town of Baring. Follow NF 6024 for 4.3 miles before reaching a dead end at the parking area for the trailhead (directions to trailhead here). While the forest road to the trailhead is rough, the first mile seemed to be worse than the last 3. I’d recommend a high clearance vehicle but, if you drive slow enough, normal clearance would work.
Beginning the Hike to Barclay Lake
Hiking to Barclay Lake is one of the easiest trails I’ve trekked. There is virtually no elevation gain in the first mile as you wind through the mossy trees. Dramatic views are nonexistent during the hike but the forested environment makes up for it as the trail runs parallel with Barclay Creek.
Crossing the Creek Bridge
At around mile marker 1.3 we meet the bridge crossing. While the Barclay Creek is dry during this time in late summer, this area marks the first instance where we emerge from the forest.
Continuing on to Barclay Lake
In less than a half mile from the bridge crossing we start to witness peeks of Baring Mountain. Almost instantly we see the beginning of Barclay Lake shaded by that 6,096-foot-high mountain.
Reaching Barclay Lake
At first glimpse of Barclay Lake, it’s apparent that most hikers reach the lake from here. Not wanting to disturb the terrain, we continue on to find a more etched path down to the banks. You’ll notice many downed trees meant to deter hikers from creating their own trails to the lake. Look for the more prominent openings to find your way to the water.
Since this area was busy with other hikers and swimmers, we hike on to the end of the lake to find some shade. Passing by a couple of campsites and a food prep area, we meet the banks of Barclay as it opens up to a bogged meadow shaded by Baring Mountain.
Before heading out on trails, it’s imperative that you’re familiar with the “Leave No Trace” principles.
Read More: Leave No Trace: The 7 Rules of the Backcountry
Learn more about Leave No Trace on their website here.
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