Minotaur Lake
Central CascadesBest Jul–Oct
A brutally steep mile of forest climbing rewarded by a perfect alpine cirque lake at 5,580 feet.
About This Trail
The trail gains 1,400 feet in its first mile, a relentless grade through dense forest that sorts out casual visitors quickly. Above 5,000 feet the grade eases and the forest opens into cascading subalpine meadows filled with lupine, paintbrush, and huckleberries in late summer.
Minotaur Lake occupies an alpine cirque at 5,580 feet, named for the Greek mythology theme shared with neighboring Theseus Lake and Labyrinth Mountain. The lake is small, deep, and photogenic, backed by rocky walls. A meadow pond sits below the lake, shallow enough to warm in the sun. Cliff overlooks above the lake provide views down to Theseus Lake and across the Stevens Pass peaks.
Labyrinth Mountain makes a worthwhile extension from the lake, adding another 800 feet of gain to a summit with panoramic views. The access road (FR 6700 and 6704) is rough with rocky patches but passable for most vehicles driven carefully. No parking pass or permit is required.
Seasonal Highlights
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
“Any car could get through- it's less a matter ground clearance and more about missing the nastier rocks.”
Last report: Oct 13, 2025
Scorecard
The steep grade and rough access road keep crowds manageable. Most visitors are experienced hikers. Weekday visits are often solitary.
Safety & Considerations
Persistent Hazards
- First mile gains 1,400 feet on steep, rooted trail
- Snow patches persist on north-facing slopes into September
- Rough access road with rocky sections
Getting There
Small trailhead lot at the end of FR 6704. Access road is rough with rocky sections but passable for most vehicles.
Recent Reports
Very steep! Beautiful!
Pretty much excatly as expected. Got out of the car and went 1500 feet up in one mile.
Road Minutes per rumble increases after the Valhalla lot, with some particularly rough patches following the saddle and descent toward the turnoff. Any car could get through- it's less a matter ground clearance and more about missing the nastier rocks.
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