Talapus and Olallie Lakes
Snoqualmie RegionBest Jul–Oct
Two forested lakes tucked beneath Pratt Mountain, linked by an old-growth corridor of cedar and hemlock.
About This Trail
The Talapus and Olallie Lakes trail climbs through old-growth cedar and hemlock on the south side of Pratt Mountain, gaining a modest 1,220 feet in three miles. Talapus Creek rushes alongside the lower trail, crossing log bridges and feeding the first lake. Campsites ring the west shore of Talapus; a short continuation leads to larger Olallie Lake at 3,780 feet, with open lakeside sites and views north to Bandera and Pratt.
This is one of the more accessible Alpine Lakes destinations from I-90, and that accessibility shows on summer weekends. The lakes draw crowds; wildlife has grown accustomed to people. A self-issued wilderness permit is required at the trailhead kiosk.
The approach road, FR 9030, is gravel and often badly potholed. It closes in winter, when the trail becomes a long snowshoe. Stay on tread through the switchbacks above Talapus: decades of cut corners have scarred the slope, and maintenance crews have worked this trail repeatedly from 2018 through 2023 to restore it.
Seasonal Highlights
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
Scorecard
Summer weekends fill the lot by mid-morning. Weekdays and shoulder season are quieter.
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended; water reflection adds glare near the lake
Persistent Hazards
- FR 9030 closed in winter; access becomes a long snowshoe
- Road is rough and potholed — drive slow
- Wildlife habituated to people; store food and leash dogs
Getting There
Northwest Forest Pass required and not sold at the trailhead. Self-issued wilderness permit at the kiosk. FR 9030 is gravel and often potholed.
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