Trap Pass
Central CascadesBest Jul–Oct
PCT traverse to a high saddle above the Alpine Lakes Wilderness with side trips to backcountry lakes.
About This Trail
Trap Pass continues past Trap Lake on the PCT to a 5,800-foot saddle with southward views into the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. The full 11.4-mile round trip from the Tunnel Creek trailhead gains 2,700 feet, with the first 1.6 miles being the steepest and roughest section. After the initial grind up Tunnel Creek, the PCT section traverses mountain slopes with switchbacks and increasingly open views as the trail climbs toward the pass.
The pass itself opens views south toward the Thunder Mountain Lakes basin and the broader Wilderness. A 0.3-mile side trail drops down to Trap Lake shortly before the pass, making it easy to visit both objectives. The PCT segment features wildflower meadows in midsummer and good fall color in October. Side trips to Thunder Mountain Lakes or Square Lake are possible for parties willing to explore off the main route.
The Tunnel Creek road is rough and the trailhead parking is just a roadside pullout. The lower trail has steep drop-offs and gets slippery in wet conditions. This is a long day requiring good fitness, or it works well as an overnight base for exploring the lake basin.
Seasonal Highlights
Mountain Weather
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
Snow on the upper PCT sections through early July. Old fire damage along the Square Lake side trail. Bugs moderate around lake basins in July. Trail well maintained on the PCT. Tunnel Creek lower section always rough.
“(Surprise Creek approach) Sunny skies and complete solitude.”
Last report: Jul 2, 2026
Scorecard
Very few hikers go past Trap Lake to the pass. PCT through-hikers may be encountered in late summer.
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended; water reflection adds glare near the lake
Persistent Hazards
- Steep trail with drop-offs on Tunnel Creek section
- Rocky, rooty, narrow tread on lower trail
- Brushy sections in midsummer
- Bugs moderate in July around lake basins
Getting There
Same rough roadside parking as Trap Lake/Tunnel Creek trailhead. No restroom.
Same trailhead as Trap Lake via Tunnel Creek. After reaching the PCT, turn right (south) and follow to the pass. Side trail to Trap Lake branches off 0.3 miles before the pass.
Recent Reports
Incredible trip up to Thunder Mountain Lake today! (Surprise Creek approach) Sunny skies and complete solitude.
Today I did a through hike from the Tunnel creek TH to the Surprise Creek TH with The Mountaineers. We parked cars at both trailheads and started hiking at 8:45 am from the Tunnel Creek TH.
On my quest to visit all the lakes in the ALW (eventually) I was excited when my partner agreed to go to Square Lake. A fire took out part of the Square Lake trail many, many years ago and trip reports have been scarce since then.
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