Hyas Lake

The relatively flat hike to this long, shallow lake makes an excellent destination for families with children or an easy overnight camping trip. Follow the Cle Elum River Trail as it moves through wooded forest and over bubbling streams while surrounded by a bevy of local berries: thimbleberry, bunchberry, mountain ash and huckleberry. The initial gentle incline flattens out after the first half a mile as you continue through the woods. After one mile, the forest begins to open as the trail nears the lower portion of the main lake. Listen for birds singing in the forested canopy, as they tend to gravitate toward the lake—this means you’re close. At two miles the lake comes into view. Arriving at the lower shores, you'll find plenty of picnic and camping options. The trail continues to the upper lake to offer incredible views of Cathedral Rock and Mount Daniel, which create a striking contrast to the flat valley holding the lake. Return by the same route. There's only one pit toilet, BYOTP, first come first serve. 2 miles in from the trailhead.