Pear Lake

Pear Lake sits in a high basin below Fortune Mountain at the boundary of the Henry M. Jackson and Glacier Peak Wildernesses. The approach follows the Top Lake Trail through a mix of old forest and the 2014 Shoofly Fire burn zone before joining a short section of the Pacific Crest Trail. The burn opened up views that were not there before, and on clear days you can see Glacier Peak from the trail.

The lake itself is a compact alpine gem ringed by meadow and subalpine forest, good for swimming in August, and surrounded by blueberry bushes that ripen in late summer. Black bears are regular visitors to the Lake Creek drainage, drawn by the same berries, so proper food storage is essential. Campsites are established around the lake and along the approach.

Getting here requires some commitment. The drive to the trailhead involves navigating a series of forest roads off North Shore Road near Lake Wenatchee, and the final spur (FR 6701-500) can be rough. The trail itself is not technically difficult, but downed trees have been a persistent issue, and the route receives less maintenance than more popular destinations. Trip reports consistently flag blowdowns, so bring patience and route-finding sense. This is a place that rewards people willing to work for their solitude.