Nada Lake
Central CascadesBest Jun–Oct
A worthy alpine lake that most people walk right past on the way to somewhere else.
About This Trail
Nada Lake sits at 5,200 feet beneath granite peaks on the Snow Lakes trail, and it deserves more than a passing glance from through-hikers. The lake fills a rocky basin with views up toward McClellan Peak, and a narrow strip of land between two pools gives it a distinctive character. Most visitors treat Nada as a waypoint on the slog to Snow Lakes or the Enchantments, but as a standalone destination, it delivers a solid alpine experience at a slightly shorter distance.
The trail shares its first 5 miles with the Snow Lakes route. Switchbacks gain 800 feet quickly before the grade eases through fire-scarred terrain and forest. Rock climbers split off early to access Snow Creek Wall. After re-entering the trees, more switchbacks climb through areas showing storm damage and downed timber. A log bridge crosses Snow Creek before the final steep push through talus to the lake.
Do not underestimate the return trip. The descent covers the same rocky, uneven trail and finishes with 24 switchbacks that feel relentless after a full day. Trip reports consistently flag the downhill as the hardest part. Trekking poles help. Good boots matter more. Backcountry camping permits are required May through October.
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
“We had a pass for 2 nights in the Snow Lakes area, we were hoping to get to the upper Snow Lake and do a day hike into the core area but didn't quite make it.”
Last report: Jun 20, 2026
Scorecard
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended; water reflection adds glare near the lake
Persistent Hazards
- punishing rocky descent
- blowdowns reported on trail
- mosquitoes in early summer
Getting There
Snow Lakes trailhead on Icicle Creek Road, 4.2 miles south of US 2. Outhouse available. Same lot as Snow Lakes and Enchantments through-hikers, so it fills fast on permit days.
Same trailhead and route as Snow Lakes. After the initial switchbacks and forest section, the trail climbs through storm-damaged areas with some blowdowns. A log bridge crosses Snow Creek before the final steep talus section to the lake at approximately mile 5.3.
Morning start recommended. The trail gets warm on exposed switchbacks by midday, and you want daylight for the full descent.
Recent Reports
We had a pass for 2 nights in the Snow Lakes area, we were hoping to get to the upper Snow Lake and do a day hike into the core area but didn't quite make it. Like has been said before there were a lot of blow downs to navigate making it very tough with big packs on, especially since we are kinda out of shape.
3-day/2-night backpack from Snow Lakes TH up to Nada Lake with a day-hike into the Core. Bottom-line up-front: We counted 108 tree blow-downs obstructing the trail between the Snow Lake trailhead and Nada Lake.
I didn’t hike the trail; I was over at Clamshell with a few other climbers. Just reporting that the rattlesnakes are out, so you want to watch where you go pee, put your hands, check your bag before you lift it up, and keep your doggo on a leash 😌.
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