Hyas Lake
Snoqualmie RegionBest Jun–Oct
A flat walk through old-growth forest to a big valley lake beneath Cathedral Rock and Mount Daniel.
About This Trail
Hyas Lake sits at the head of the Cle Elum River valley, reached by a flat 2-mile walk through old-growth forest. The trail gains almost no elevation, following the river through stands of ancient timber with thimbleberry, huckleberry, and bunchberry lining the path in late summer. After about a mile the forest opens and the lower lake comes into view, backed by the massive face of Cathedral Rock and the glaciated slopes of Mount Daniel.
The upper lake extends the walk slightly with broader views up the valley. Established campsites dot the shoreline, though weekend competition for sites runs fierce in peak season. Plan to arrive early or visit midweek for the best camping options. The trail received maintenance from WTA work parties in 2022 and 2025, keeping the path in solid shape through to the Tuck and Robin Lakes junction.
This trailhead also serves as the starting point for much bigger objectives. The trail continues past the lake to Deception Pass and the Alpine Lakes Traverse, and a side trail branches to Tuck and Robin Lakes, one of the most spectacular alpine lake basins in the range. Hyas Lake works as a standalone family outing, a first backpacking trip, or the opening miles of a multi-day wilderness route.
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
“We hoped to make it to Robin Lake, but decided to turn around and make it back to the trailhead before dark.”
Last report: May 23, 2026
Scorecard
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended
Persistent Hazards
- Access road is rough and potholed for the final 12 miles
- Campsites fill early on summer weekends; plan accordingly
- Bears are active in the valley; store food properly
Getting There
From I-90 exit 80, drive north on SR-903 through Roslyn and Salmon La Sac, then fork right onto Cle Elum Valley Road (FR-4330). The last 12 miles are rough gravel with potholes. Northwest Forest Pass required. The lot fills quickly on summer weekends; arrive before 9 AM on Saturdays.
Follow the Cle Elum River Trail from the Tucquala Meadows trailhead. The trail is nearly flat with a gentle incline in the first half mile that levels out. Well-maintained and easy to follow. The lake appears at about 2 miles. Continue past the lower lake for upper lake views and access to Deception Pass or Tuck/Robin Lakes beyond.
No early start needed for the lake itself. For overnight camping, arrive by mid-morning on weekends to secure a site. The short distance makes afternoon starts viable for day hikers any time of year the road is open.
Recent Reports
Updated 5/23, I was able to scout the the Deception Pass Trail #1376 all the way to the junction with Tuck and Robin Lakes. The trail is in rough shape after winter storms.
Made the season's first trek with the Ellensburg Trails Club, first to Hyas Lake and on up to Tuck Lake. We hoped to make it to Robin Lake, but decided to turn around and make it back to the trailhead before dark.
Hiked up past Hyas Lake and Tuck Lake, and set up camp between the Robin Lakes. Continued on a counter-clockwise loop over Granite Mountain.
Similar Hikes
