Lanham Lake
Central CascadesBest Jun–Mar
Short, steep forest climb to a quiet lake near Stevens Pass with year-round access.
About This Trail
Lanham Lake packs a solid workout into a short package: 3.2 miles round trip with 1,140 feet of gain through dense forest just east of Stevens Pass. The trail starts across from the Nordic Center on Mill Creek Road and climbs steeply under powerlines before entering older forest with views of Jim Hill Mountain's north face. The lake sits in a quiet basin surrounded by trees at about 4,100 feet.
The short distance and proximity to Stevens Pass make this a good half-day option or a pairing with Skyline Lake on the other side of the highway. Winter snowshoeing is popular here, though the trail can be hard to follow when snow covers the route. Blowdowns and stream crossings add some complexity, especially in winter when snow bridges form across downed trees. The trail sees very light use year-round, with most parties having the lake to themselves.
A Northwest Forest Pass is required at the trailhead. The access road is paved to the parking area, making this one of the more accessible trailheads in the Stevens Pass area regardless of season.
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
Snow covers the trail from November through May. Route-finding can be tricky in deep snow with blowdowns creating confusing snow bridges. Summer conditions straightforward but trail is rough with roots and some steep sections.
Scorecard
Very lightly used year-round. Most parties have the lake to themselves even on weekends.
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended
Persistent Hazards
- Blowdowns across trail
- Stream crossings that may be tricky in high water
- Route hard to follow in deep snow
Getting There
Park at the Nordic Center parking area off Mill Creek Road 6960, 7 miles east of Stevens Pass on Highway 2. Paved access.
From Highway 2, drive 7 miles east of Stevens Pass to the Nordic Center parking area. Trail starts across from the red door on Mill Creek Road 6960. NW Forest Pass required.
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