Upper Twin Lake
Central CascadesBest May–Oct
Bike-and-hike to a wild lakeshore where cutthroat trout breed undisturbed.
About This Trail
Upper Twin Lake combines a two-mile bike ride on a gated forest road with a short half-mile trail through the Glacier Peak Wilderness boundary. The road gains 250 feet gradually through a thinned forest section, part of a community protection firebreak cut during the 2015 Wolverine Fire. After the gate, the trail climbs briefly, crosses one small stream, and drops to the lakeshore.
The lake itself is a working site for Washington State Fish and Wildlife. Two aluminum boats sit on the shore, used by staff accessing a fish breeding center for cutthroat trout. Fishing is prohibited in both Twin Lakes because the cutthroat here are breeding stock for stocking other waters. The shoreline is jammed with logs pushed by prevailing westerly winds, giving it a wild, untidy look.
This works well as a family outing or a mellow day with dogs. The bike-and-hike format keeps the road walk from dragging, and the lake makes a satisfying turnaround point with good spots for snacking along the shore. Birding is productive in the surrounding forest. Access road conditions can vary, with occasional closures for construction on the forest service road.
Seasonal Highlights
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
“It is 40 mins from Lake Wenatchee to this trailhead.”
Last report: May 25, 2025
Scorecard
Low traffic year-round. The gated road and remote location keep visitation minimal.
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended; water reflection adds glare near the lake
Persistent Hazards
- Fishing prohibited in both Twin Lakes
- Forest service road occasionally closed for construction
Getting There
Park at the gate on FS 6300/Meadow Creek Road. No pass required. No facilities.
From Coles Corner (Hwy 207/2 junction), go north 10 miles on Hwy 207, right on Chiwawa Loop Road, left on Chiwawa River Road (0.5 mi), left on FS 6300/Meadow Creek Road for about 8 miles to the gate. Bike the 2-mile road walk, then hike the final half mile.
No early start needed. This is a half-day outing at most.
Recent Reports
We were camping at Lake Wenatchee and thought it would be fun to take the kids here on a bike and hike. It is 40 mins from Lake Wenatchee to this trailhead.
Great easy hike with a very nice view for a snack by the lake. There were a handful of mosquitos buzzing around for about half of the single track portion of the trail, but not enough to be a nuisance.
Beautiful day hike up to the upper lake. Road had some ruts but was otherwise in good condition.
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