Merritt Lake and Lost Lake

Merritt Lake sits at 5,000 feet on the Nason Ridge east of Stevens Pass, reached by a 5.5-mile round trip that front-loads most of its 2,100 feet of gain in steep switchbacks alongside Highway 2. The initial 1.75 miles climb relentlessly through forest before the grade eases and the trail opens into huckleberry meadows. The lake fills a forested basin below the ridge with eastern brook trout and good swimming on warm days.

The south-facing approach melts out early for its elevation, making this accessible before many other alpine lakes in the area. The forest keeps the trail shaded in summer, which offsets the steep lower section. An extension to Lost Lake adds another 3.5 miles and 1,100 feet of gain along the Nason Ridge for parties wanting a longer day. Late August brings prime huckleberry picking on the upper trail.

The trailhead access road is rough for the last half mile, with rocky, steep sections that make high-clearance vehicles a strong recommendation. The trail sees moderate use but rarely feels crowded. Bugs can be bad at the lake in early summer.