Clara and Marion Lakes

Clara and Marion Lakes sit in the forested hills just below Mission Ridge ski area, a pair of small mountain lakes connected by a short trail that makes for one of the more pleasant half-day outings near Wenatchee. The path switchbacks through fragrant ponderosa pine forest on a soft needle-covered trail, passing wildflower meadows of waterleaf, false Solomon's seal, and Jacob's ladder before reaching Clara Lake with its clear water and rough campsites.

From Clara, the trail continues a short distance to Marion Lake, a smaller body of water with a little island and basalt talus slopes ringing the shoreline. Both lakes are quiet and shaded, good spots to eat lunch and watch the squirrels argue. The Squilchuk trail junction along the way can cause momentary confusion, but turning left keeps you on track.

This trail doubles as a solid winter snowshoe route when snow covers the road to Mission Ridge. The steady climb through the forest becomes a proper workout on snowshoes, and the frozen lakes have a different kind of beauty. Spring and fall are the sweet spots for hiking, though: pleasant temperatures, fewer people, and the forest at its best. The trailhead starts right at the Mission Ridge parking lot entrance, so access is straightforward any time the road is open.