Lake Edna
Central CascadesBest Jul–Sep
A steep, demanding climb to a compact subalpine lake on the Icicle Ridge, with connections to the popular Ladies Pass Loop.
About This Trail
Lake Edna sits at 6,766 feet on the Icicle Ridge, a small but scenic subalpine lake ringed by rocky terrain and wildflower meadows. The most direct approach via Chatter Creek Trail gains over 5,000 feet in 6 miles, making it one of the steeper sustained climbs in the Icicle Creek drainage. The effort pays off with expansive views across the Alpine Lakes Wilderness.
The Chatter Creek approach starts in dense forest and climbs relentlessly. Sections of the trail run through old burn areas with significant blowdown between maintenance cycles. Route-finding through fallen trees and overgrown sections is common. The trail joins the Icicle Ridge Trail near the top, with Lake Edna a short 0.3-mile detour to the east. Camping is available along the southern and eastern shores, but not within 200 feet of the water.
Lake Edna connects to the Ladies Pass Loop, a 25-mile circuit that links Chatter Creek, Icicle Ridge, and the Chiwaukum Creek drainages. Running the loop counterclockwise from Chatter Creek puts the hardest climbing on the first day. The loop passes through some of the finest high-country terrain in the Central Cascades. Bugs diminish by mid-August, and wildflowers peak in late July through early August.
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
“Somewhat overgrown on Chatter Creek as usual (with a steep climb).”
Last report: Aug 23, 2025
Scorecard
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazards
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended
- Trees Down
Persistent Hazards
- Significant blowdown in burned sections
- Overgrown and hard-to-follow trail segments
- Steep, sustained climb with limited water sources
- Snow patches near the ridge through mid-July
Getting There
Chatter Creek Trailhead on Forest Road 7600, 6.5 miles of gravel off Icicle Road. Lot holds about 20 vehicles. Some potholes on the gravel road but passable for sedans. No facilities. Self-issue wilderness permit at trailhead (no fee).
From Chatter Creek Trailhead, climb steeply through forest and old burn zones to the Icicle Ridge Trail junction. Turn left (east) for 0.3 miles to Lake Edna. Alternative approaches via Icicle Ridge Trail (21.2 miles from the Icicle Ridge trailhead) or Chiwaukum Creek Trail provide longer but less steep options.
Start at first light for a day trip. The 5,000-foot climb demands a full day even for strong hikers. An overnight at the lake or at Upper Florence Lake (for the Ladies Pass Loop) is the better strategy.
Recent Reports
Day 1 - Hatchery Creek to Augusta Lake. This trail is an absolute mess, the amount of blowdown, burnt blow down, exposure, lack of water, route finding...
Hiked the Ladies Pass Loop starting from the Chatter Creek trailhead. This is an excellent option for those seeking less crowded high alpine terrain.
Eventful 2-night trip on Ladies Loop. We started from Chatter Creek trailhead on a hot early afternoon.
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