Fisher Lake
Central CascadesBest Jul–Oct
Large alpine lake in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, reached via a ridgeline walk and a brushy descent from Tonga Ridge.
About This Trail
Fisher Lake occupies a basin in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness south of Tonga Ridge, reachable from the same trailhead that serves the popular Tonga Ridge trail. The route starts with a pleasant ridgeline walk through meadows and huckleberry fields before dropping on a rougher fisherman's path to the lakeshore. Views of Glacier Peak appear along the ridge section, and wildflowers fill the meadows through mid-summer.
The trail to the lake itself narrows considerably. Expect brushy, overgrown sections and some steep, eroded stretches that require careful footing. A maze of social trails near Deception Creek can confuse navigation on the descent. The lake sits large and quiet, with established campsites and a backcountry toilet making it a solid overnight destination. Swimming works in late summer once the water warms slightly.
Traffic stays light compared to the Tonga Ridge trail, which draws most visitors. Fisher Lake sees perhaps five to ten groups on a summer weekend. The trailhead access road (FR 6830) runs long and rough, adding some drive time from Skykomish, but the road condition itself acts as a natural crowd filter.
Forecast
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
“No snow on trail.”
Last report: Jun 21, 2026
Scorecard
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended; water reflection adds glare near the lake
Persistent Hazards
- Brushy, overgrown trail sections below the ridge
- Confusing social trails near Deception Creek - route-finding needed
- Steep, eroded sections on the descent to the lake
- Heavy mosquitoes in meadow areas through mid-summer
- Long, rough access road adds drive time
Getting There
Tonga Ridge Trailhead. Northwest Forest Pass required. From Skykomish, take Highway 2 east, turn right on Foss River Road (FR 68) for 3.6 miles, left onto FR 6830 for 7 miles, then right onto Road 310 for 1.3 miles. The access road is long but usually passable for passenger cars. Parking fits roughly 10-15 vehicles.
Start on the Tonga Ridge Trail heading east along the ridge. The Fisher Lake turnoff drops south on a less-maintained path. The descent involves some route-finding through a confusing network of social trails near Deception Creek. Follow the most-worn path and look for flagging. The lake sits about 5 miles from the trailhead.
Morning starts work best for day trips given the 10-mile round trip and the long drive to the trailhead. For overnights, afternoon arrivals leave plenty of time to set up camp at the lake.
Recent Reports
No snow on trail. Lots of mosquitos.
After being stymied by a train sitting at a depot, blocking access to the Surprise Creek trailhead, I backtracked to Tonga Ridge and made a day of it at Mt Sawyer and Fisher Lake. First stop, Sawyer; it was a fairly straightforward if unrelenting ascent.
Road was clear to the trailhead. Snow persists for the last mile and a half to Fisher Lake.
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