Olympic Alpine Lake Ascent
Olympic Alpine Lake Ascent
This day hike takes us on a dynamic and challenging trail with an incredible payoff of a pristine alpine lake surrounded by jagged peaks of the lower Olympic Mountains.
From Union, we drive up the scenic 101 on the Hood Canal for just over an hour before reaching our trailhead. Our hike follows a trail where steep switchbacks give way to rock scrambles and meadow meandering over 4 miles before reaching our alpine lake destination. While late spring/early summer rewards epic views of the snowy peaks, late summer brings wildflowers and berries to the meadows providing us with treats as we climb.
We consider this hike a challenging one. A gain (and loss!) of nearly 4000 feet of elevation and sections of steep, rocky and uneven terrain makes this hike a perfect fit for those who are looking to sweat it out while exploring the beauty of the Olympics. Because of the length, elevation gain and varied terrain we recommend this hike for those with some previous hiking experience.
*In recent years we’ve seen many of our favorite hiking trails and areas become damaged due to overuse. To protect this spot, we’ve omitted the name of this Lake from the trip description.
RATES:
- 1 person $450
- 2 people $320/ person
- 3-4 people $240/person
*For groups larger than 4 please fill out a Custom Trip Request
TRIP OVERVIEW
- Length: 7.8 mi
- Elevation Gain/Loss: +/- 3,832 ft
- Trip duration: 8-10 hours
- Trip meeting point: Union, Wa
What to expect when you join a trip with HYOH:
Our trips are customizable and fitted to you! Before you join us for a trip, we will get a chance to check in with you, answer any questions you have and make sure we are all set to head out on our adventure. We will also send you a detailed packing list with some of our recommendations for footwear, clothing and other essentials.
- Fun and knowledgeable guide(s) As HYOH guides, we are stoked to share our experience and knowledge to make your olympic adventure unforgettable. Our day hiking guides are at minimum CPR certified and carry first aid kits and satellite devices when we visit wilderness areas. Safety is our number one priority!
- Gear. HYOH will provide trekking poles and daypacks for all of our day hikes. If conditions warrant snowshoes or microspikes – we got you covered!
- Food. Day hikes include snacks and a fabulous picnic lunch prepared by your guide. Before your trip, we will check in with you about your diet restrictions and preferences.
- Permits. For our trips that require reservations and permits through the Olympic National Forest and Olympic National Park – we got you covered!
- Transportation. The trip price that you see includes transportation for 1-4 guests from Union, Washington to the trailhead and back. Default pick up/ meet time for day hikes is 7:00 am PST however, we are generally able to accommodate any requested start time. When you book your trip, we will ask when and where you would like to be picked up in Union, Washington. We can also provide a meeting place in Union if that is more convenient for guests. If you prefer to meet at the trailhead, that works too (just keep in mind that you will have to provide your own vehicle pass and park entry fee when required.) If there are more than 4 guests in your group or you would like transportation from another location inquire about a custom trip and we will work with you directly to plan your trip. We are often able to provide a shuttle service for an additional fee.
- Personal hiking clothing and comfortable hiking shoes or boots
- Sun or cold protection depending on the season!
- Personal medications and hygiene
- Water bottle(s)
- Headlamp + batteries
Tipping your guide is not expected but always appreciated! Industry standard is 10-20% of cost
What to expect when you join a trip with HYOH:
Our trips are customizable and fitted to you! Before you join us for a trip, we will get a chance to check in with you, answer any questions you have and make sure we are all set to head out on our adventure. We will also send you a detailed packing list with some of our recommendations for footwear, clothing and other essentials.
- Fun and knowledgeable guide(s) As HYOH guides, we are stoked to share our experience and knowledge to make your olympic adventure unforgettable. Our day hiking guides are at minimum CPR certified and carry first aid kits and satellite devices when we visit wilderness areas. Safety is our number one priority!
- Gear. HYOH will provide trekking poles and daypacks for all of our day hikes. If conditions warrant snowshoes or microspikes – we got you covered!
- Food. Day hikes include snacks and a fabulous picnic lunch prepared by your guide. Before your trip, we will check in with you about your diet restrictions and preferences.
- Permits. For our trips that require reservations and permits through the Olympic National Forest and Olympic National Park – we got you covered!
- Transportation. The trip price that you see includes transportation for 1-4 guests from Union, Washington to the trailhead and back. Default pick up/ meet time for day hikes is 7:00 am PST however, we are generally able to accommodate any requested start time. When you book your trip, we will ask when and where you would like to be picked up in Union, Washington. We can also provide a meeting place in Union if that is more convenient for guests. If you prefer to meet at the trailhead, that works too (just keep in mind that you will have to provide your own vehicle pass and park entry fee when required.) If there are more than 4 guests in your group or you would like transportation from another location inquire about a custom trip and we will work with you directly to plan your trip. We are often able to provide a shuttle service for an additional fee.
- Personal hiking clothing and comfortable hiking shoes or boots
- Sun or cold protection depending on the season!
- Personal medications and hygiene
- Water bottle(s)
- Headlamp + batteries
Tipping your guide is not expected but always appreciated! Industry standard is 10-20% of cost
