The PNW has many trails to offer, but this one is the absolute best loop in WA! It most breathtaking mountain lake views with varying terrain and elevation.
Chain Lakes Loop is a trail on Mount Baker that is accessible from late spring to later fall. Due to it’s high elevation, the snow pack may be present into the summer months. So, plan accordingly by checking the weather and your All Trails app. My first trek on the loop was in early August, so the trail was dry. But, the PNW has lots of rain – so be prepared for that to happen! There were moments that made the trail challenging to identify, so downloading the map before hand is highly recommended.
The elevation changes along the trail could bring an array of weather patterns. We had a little of everything starting with light rain and moving into super foggy and then warm and sunny. Every corner we turned there was a new and beautiful new perspective of the mountains, but that also brought it’s own mini climate. . I was happy with a long sleeve quick dry and a packable vest. But, I was so happy to have my packable rain jacket to lay out for a dry place to sit when we took a snack break. With seven different lakes along this trail, it may be challenging to only pick one place to stop and take in the view. We got lucky and while we sat and snacked on some of my favorite trail snacks the sun broke through the clouds and we spotted a mountain goat on a peak across the lake – absolutely amazing to watch!
Happy Hiking!
