Avalanche Lake Trail
A popular west-side hike crosses the accessible Trail of the Cedars, climbs through moist old growth, and ends beneath a cirque streaked with waterfalls.
Artwork inspired by Gennie DeWeese
The first half-mile boardwalk reveals western redcedar, hemlock, moss, and decomposing wood in a Pacific-influenced forest. Beyond it, the route climbs beside Avalanche Creek to a glacially carved lake basin.
In 2026 the park shuttle does not serve Avalanche, making parking and timing especially important. Check bear and trail status, arrive early, keep off lake logs and cold water, and do not confuse the accessible cedar loop with the steeper lake trail. Lake trail matters here: About five miles round trip.
- Lake trail
- About five miles round trip
- Gain
- About 740 feet
- Allow
- 3–5 hours
Quick guide
- First question
- Expect rockier climbing beyond the accessible loop.
- Set beside it
- About 740 feet ↔ Expect rockier climbing beyond the accessible loop
A focused visit to Avalanche Lake Trail
- Begin
- Read old growth on the Trail of the Cedars before moving into the wider story.
- Continue knowingly
- Expect rockier climbing beyond the accessible loop.
- Secure arrival
- Check current shuttle service and trailhead parking before departure.
- Protect basin
- Stay out of cold water and away from unstable logs.
Good to know
Avalanche parking can fill very early, and shuttle availability is not a dependable fallback every season. Bear closures, rain, wet roots, and crowding alter the hike; never invent a roadside space on Going-to-the-Sun Road.
Notice these
- About five miles round trip
- About 740 feet
- Expect rockier climbing beyond the accessible loop.