What is the current status of trail closures at Horse Lake Reserve?

Several trails are closed due to reconstruction and repair, significantly limiting loop options. As of [April 27](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-04-27.212954172579), closures include Lower Lightening trail, Snake Bite, and Coyote Canyon. The Lightening trail was also noted as closed for reconstruction on [May 1](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-05-01.172607713916).

What is the parking situation at Horse Lake Reserve trailheads?

Parking can be extremely challenging, especially at Kenzie's Landing. As of [April 25](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-04-25.194013017244), spaces were already full by 8:15 am, with cars lining the gravel road.

What is the condition of the wildflowers at Horse Lake Reserve?

Wildflowers are abundant, particularly on higher slopes as of [May 8](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-05-08.132741262149). While lower elevation Balsamroot is past its peak, lupine, phlox, and other varieties are in bloom, creating vibrant green hillsides as of [April 27](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-04-27.212954172579).

Are there any reported wildlife or tick sightings?

One hiker reported their dog picking up a large deer tick and seeing one snake on [April 27](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-04-27.212954172579). Another couple also reported seeing a rattlesnake on the same day.

Horse Lake Reserve

Central Washington

updated 4 months ago

Horse Lake Reserve is currently experiencing a vibrant wildflower bloom, with abundant flowers noted as of May 13. While lower elevation Balsamroot is past its peak and appears haggard, lupine, phlox, and other species are filling in nicely, creating beautiful, green hillsides as of April 27. However, hikers should be aware that many trails are closed due to reconstruction and repair, significantly limiting loop options, including closures on the Lower Lightening trail, Snake Bite, and Coyote Canyon as of April 27. Parking at Kenzie's Landing can be extremely full, with cars lining the gravel road even by 8:15 am on April 25.

Generated from 19 trip reports. Trails change faster than reports do, so check anything you’d turn around for.

What hikers ask about Horse Lake Reserve

Generated from the most recent trip reports, newest 4 months ago. Check anything you’d turn around for.

No trip reports on this trail in 4 months, so everything below is at least that old.

Several trails are closed due to reconstruction and repair, significantly limiting loop options. As of April 27, closures include Lower Lightening trail, Snake Bite, and Coyote Canyon. The Lightening trail was also noted as closed for reconstruction on May 1.