Myrtle Lake
Central CascadesBest May–Sep
A moderate river-valley walk to a quiet Entiat Mountain lake through fire-renewed wildflower country.
About This Trail
Myrtle Lake sits four miles up the Entiat River Trail, a moderate out-and-back that gains just 650 feet along the river corridor. The 2015 Wolverine Fire burned much of the forest along the route, and the charred landscape has become a wildflower showcase in the years since -- open slopes blanketed with blooms and unobstructed valley views that the old forest canopy once hid. Fallen burned trees remain an ongoing trail maintenance challenge, and hikers should expect to navigate over or around blowdowns.
The lake itself occupies a quiet pocket in the Entiat Mountains with established campsites along the south shore. The north shore offers shaded rest spots and easy access to the water. Several waterfalls appear along the approach trail, and three to four creek crossings require water-friendly footwear. The trail is popular with families who find the moderate grade and manageable distance a good fit for kids and dogs alike.
Parking at the Entiat River Trailhead fills on summer weekends by mid-morning. The drive is long -- about 38 miles up the Entiat River Road from Highway 97A, with the final stretch on gravel past Cottonwood Campground.
Seasonal Highlights
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
“The trailhead was clear, and the trail along the Entiat was in great condition, soft and sandy, with only an occasional tree down and some small, but easily passible stream washouts.”
Last report: May 23, 2026
Scorecard
Summer weekends see a dozen or more cars at the trailhead by mid-morning. Weekdays and shoulder season are much quieter. The lake campsites attract overnighters.
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended; water reflection adds glare near the lake
Persistent Hazards
- Frequent blowdowns from burned trees across the trail
- 3-4 creek crossings requiring water shoes
- Post-fire snags can fall in wind -- be alert
Getting There
Entiat River Trailhead lot fills on summer weekends by mid-morning. Northwest Forest Pass required. No overflow lot.
Drive Entiat River Road (FR 51) approximately 38 miles from Highway 97A. Road transitions to gravel past Cottonwood Campground. Trail follows the Entiat River for about 4 miles to the lake.
Recent Reports
We did a two day backpacking trip to Myrtle Lake. The trailhead was clear, and the trail along the Entiat was in great condition, soft and sandy, with only an occasional tree down and some small, but easily passible stream washouts.
No trip report Tim dragged me around the mountains this week for a 4 night extravaganza. Starting on 9/17.
Hiked in to Myrtle Lake S Campsite via the Entiat River trail for a one night out and back. Please note that this report only covers the first 4ish miles of the Entiat River Trail.
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