Upper Roaring Creek
Central CascadesBest Jul–Sep
A ridgeline traverse between two alpine lakes with views of Glacier Peak and the Chiwawa Mountains.
About This Trail
Upper Roaring Creek trail connects Lake Julius and Lake Ethel along a scenic ridgeline in the Stevens Pass backcountry, covering 5 miles round trip with 1,433 feet of gain to a high point of 6,022 feet. The ridge walk delivers expansive views of Glacier Peak, Clark Mountain, and the Chiwawa range. Alpine meadows line the crest with wildflowers in late July.
Two approach options exist, and neither is straightforward. The Lake Ethel Trail climbs steeply through private logging land for 5 miles with little shade and no water. The Lake Julius approach requires staying at Scottish High Camp, which provides a shuttle to the trailhead. Both routes reach the ridgeline where the best walking begins.
Lake Ethel and the surrounding basin offer good camping with side trips to Loch Eileen, Lake Donald, and the high meadows above. The lakes hold decent-sized trout. Trip reports note periodic trail closures and reroutes through logging road areas, so check conditions before heading out. Campfires are prohibited above 5,000 feet.
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
“Can't comment on the views though :( FYI that the Lake Ethel trailhead says the trail is closed for a portion and you must go around on logging roads.”
Last report: Aug 19, 2023
Scorecard
Very few visitors. The difficult approaches keep most hikers away.
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended; water reflection adds glare near the lake
Persistent Hazards
- Lake Ethel approach crosses private logging land with periodic closures
- No water on Lake Ethel approach trail
- Campfires prohibited above 5,000 feet
Getting There
Recent Reports
Smoke caught us at the last minute but we gave it a go anyway for a short overnight. Can't comment on the views though :( FYI that the Lake Ethel trailhead says the trail is closed for a portion and you must go around on logging roads.
A group of six adults and one dog enjoyed a two-night backpacking trip, lucking out with absolutely fantastic late September weather. Camped at Lake Ethel with a Saturday day trip to Julius, Eileen, Donald and the High Meadows.
There have been a lot of negative comments on the Lake Ethel trail, so I thought it would be fun to go there ;). Admittedly, I was actually most interested in going to the area above Loch Eileen (point 7132 and 7423), because I've seen beautiful photos from there.
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