What are the current parking conditions like?

The main parking lot frequently fills up, especially on weekends and by mid-morning. On [September 20](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-09-20.155109673437), the lot was full by the time the hiker returned, and on [September 11](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-09-13.145609145775), it was almost full by 10:30 am. Some reports suggest parking is available at the picnic area across the street if the main lot is full.

Are there any significant trail obstacles or conditions to be aware of?

The trail is generally in good condition with no major obstacles reported. However, it can be rocky and muddy in places, so hiking boots are recommended. There are many stairs on the trail, which can be tedious for some climbers. One report from [September 15](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-09-16.134223902257) warned about a restroom deadbolt that reportedly got stuck, making it difficult to exit.

What is the status of fall color at Lake 22?

Fall color is not yet at its peak, but signs of the season are appearing. As of [September 11](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-09-13.145609145775), many vine maple leaves in fall color had fallen on the trail. Another report from [August 17](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-08-18.093005163309) noted fireweed was in full bloom, contrasting with the surrounding area.

What is the typical crowd level on the trail?

Lake 22 is a very popular trail and typically sees significant crowds. On a busy Labor Day Monday, the parking lot was already 80% full around 7:50 am. Weekend reports consistently mention the lot filling up early [September 20](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-09-20.155109673437), [September 19](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-09-23.112919590809), September 11. It is recommended to start early or consider a weekday hike to avoid the largest crowds, September 13.

Lake 22

North Cascades

updated 5 days ago

The trail to Lake 22 is in good condition, with no snow reported as of September 20. The road is suitable for all vehicles according to most reports, though one from August 30 noted it was rough but passable. Parking can be challenging, with the lot frequently full, especially on weekends and by mid-morning. Hikers should be prepared for crowds, as this is a very popular trail. While fall color is not yet at its peak, fallen vine maple leaves are starting to appear on the trail as of September 11, suggesting the season is approaching. The trail features many improvements, including new log stairways and retaining walls. A potential issue to be aware of is a restroom deadbolt that has reportedly gotten stuck, making it difficult to exit.

Generated from 188 trip reports. Trails change faster than reports do, so check anything you’d turn around for.

What hikers ask about Lake 22

Generated from the most recent trip reports, newest 5 days ago. Check anything you’d turn around for.

The main parking lot frequently fills up, especially on weekends and by mid-morning. On September 20, the lot was full by the time the hiker returned, and on September 11, it was almost full by 10:30 am. Some reports suggest parking is available at the picnic area across the street if the main lot is full.