Greider Lakes
Central CascadesBest Jun–Oct
A steep push through old growth to a pair of pristine alpine lakes tucked into the Sultan Basin watershed.
About This Trail
The first two miles lull you into thinking this will be easy. You follow a decommissioned road along the shore of Spada Lake, mostly flat, through recovering forest. Then the real trail begins and the character changes completely. Roughly 40 switchbacks carry you up 2,000 feet in about a mile and a half through mossy old-growth timber. It is relentless but well-graded, and the forest keeps things shaded on warm days.
Little Greider Lake comes first, a small tarn ringed by steep slopes and conifers. Big Greider Lake sits just beyond, noticeably larger and more dramatic, with rocky cliffs dropping straight to the water. Both lakes have that deep green-blue color you only get in basins that hold snow well into summer. Campsites at the big lake are established but basic.
Getting here requires signing in at the Olney Pass kiosk, which is run by the City of Everett and Snohomish County PUD to protect the watershed. Swimming is prohibited. The road to the trailhead can be rough and is sometimes gated in winter due to unstable slopes, so check conditions with SnoPUD before heading out. Bring trekking poles for the climb and be ready for blowdowns on the trail, which sees limited maintenance.
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
“I most likely lost it in the parking lot or within the first 2 miles.”
Last report: Jun 5, 2026
Scorecard
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended; water reflection adds glare near the lake
Persistent Hazards
- Blowdowns across trail (limited maintenance)
- Road closures due to unstable slopes in winter/spring
- Slick roots on switchbacks when wet
Getting There
Trailhead at the end of FR 61, about 7 miles past the Olney Pass kiosk. Free permit required at the kiosk. Discover Pass needed. Privy at the trailhead. Road can be rough and may close seasonally due to slope instability. Check SnoPUD website before driving out.
Two flat miles on a decommissioned road along Spada Lake, then a sharp turn uphill with about 40 switchbacks gaining 2,000 feet in 1.5 miles. Little Greider appears first, Big Greider a quarter mile past that. Trail is worn but serviceable, though blowdowns can block sections.
Start by mid-morning to have time at the lakes. The flat opening section is deceptively long, so budget accordingly. The switchback section is almost entirely shaded, which helps on hot afternoons.
Recent Reports
I lost a seed pearl bracelet, a gift from my daughter that is precious to me. I most likely lost it in the parking lot or within the first 2 miles.
Lots of long write-ups for this trail, so keeping my review short. Road - No concerns.
8 of us from the Seattle Mountaineers CHS-2 cohort (ave. 2.
Similar Hikes
