Naches Peak Loop
2 days ago
Fall colors are spectacular
16 this month · 117 reports
Dewey Lake
Mount Rainier Area
updated 5 days ago
The trail to Dewey Lake is in good condition, with no snow reported as of September 20, 2026. All recent reports indicate the road is suitable for all vehicles, and bugs have not been a significant issue. Fall colors are beginning to appear, with some wildflowers still visible, particularly gentians, as of September 18. Hikers should be aware of potential crowds, especially on weekends and if combining with the Naches Peak Loop. Parking availability varies; Tipsoo Lake and Sheep Lake trailheads can fill up, with Tipsoo Lake being busier earlier in the day according to a September 17 report.
Generated from 32 trip reports. Trails change faster than reports do, so check anything you’d turn around for.
What hikers ask about Dewey Lake
Generated from the most recent trip reports, newest 5 days ago. Check anything you’d turn around for.
As of September 20, 2026, fall colors are starting to appear, with reports from September 17 noting them as "suburb" down to Dewey Lake and a September 6 report mentioning variations depending on aspect and elevation. Some wildflowers, including gentians, are still visible as of September 20.
The trail is generally reported to be in good condition. A report from August 20 noted a few logs down on the trail around the lake, but they were easily navigated. Another report from August 16 mentioned the upper section being a bit rocky, suggesting trekking poles might be useful.
Parking at Tipsoo Lake and Sheep Lake trailheads can be limited, especially on weekends. A report from September 17 stated Tipsoo Lake was filling up by 10:30 am, and a report from August 8 noted that official spots at the main trailhead were taken by 8 am, though parking was available across the street.
While Dewey Lake itself is accessible, the Naches Peak Loop, which can be a starting point, is not an option with dogs as it enters Mount Rainier National Park. Multiple reports from August noted instances of off-leash dogs and dogs present despite 'no dogs' signs, suggesting it is a recurring issue.
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Trail notes generated from recent reports. Conditions change fast.
Sources
Mount Rainier Area > SE - Cayuse Pass/Stevens Canyon
A last-minute change of plans led me to do this hike. It's a long drive for a short hike, so I had put it off. Upon getting there, I realized I had actually done much of it before, but no matter. This...
Recent1 week ago
Mount Rainier Area > Chinook Pass - Hwy 410
Our first time hiking the wildly popular Naches Peak Loop trail. We parked at the Sheep Lake Parking lot around 9 am on Friday. This parking lot was almost full at the time but we did see more availab...
Recent1 week ago
Mount Rainier Area > Chinook Pass - Hwy 410
Parking was filling up at Tipsoo at 10:30 am. We carried our toddlers clockwise and added in Dewey Lake for a lunch destination. Trail traffic was less busy than summer but still steady. The colors do...
Recent2 weeks ago
Mount Rainier Area > Chinook Pass - Hwy 410
Headed out with a Mountaineers group to hike Dewey Lake via the Naches Peak Loop trail on a sunny Monday. We arrived atthe Sheep Lake trailhead at about 8:30 am with plenty of parking available. Took ...
Recent2 weeks ago
Mount Rainier Area > Chinook Pass - Hwy 410
As expected there were lots of people on the Naches Peak loop. It's remarkable to note ow much more popular that loop is now compared to 27 years ago when we first walked it. It's cool to hear lots ...
Older1 month ago
Mount Rainier Area > Chinook Pass - Hwy 410
Another wonderful PNW hike to Dewey Lakes, starting at Chinook Pass and taking the PCT across the beautiful pedestrian bridge over SR-410. Almost immediately, the gorgeous scenery begins with a small ...
Older1 month ago
Mount Rainier Area > Chinook Pass - Hwy 410
A great Friday hike to Dewey. A bit more hiking traffic than expected for a Friday, but with so many trails being closed it’s understandable. So many friendly faces on the trail, including a black bea...
Older1 month ago
Mount Rainier Area > Chinook Pass - Hwy 410
My first backpacking trip! With experienced friends. Thursday through Friday. After the initial start at Naches Loop Trailhead, we went over the wooden bridge and were soon greeted by sweeping vistas ...
Older1 month ago
Mount Rainier Area > Chinook Pass - Hwy 410
Amazing 2 night backpacking trip to dewey lake. We camped at southwest end of the lake adding about 0.5 more miles but totally worth it. Day 2 we day hiked taking dewey lake trail connector to the P...
Older1 month ago
Mount Rainier Area > Chinook Pass - Hwy 410
We, WTA work crew, arrived at the Chinook Pass Overlook parking lot at 8:10am and found lots of parking. With the Sunrise entrance closed, more people are looking for an alternate hike. But we saw les...