Lake Valhalla
3 weeks ago
Fall colors are muted, road conditions vary
12 this month · 113 reports
Merritt Lake and Lost Lake
Central Cascades
updated 2 weeks ago
The current conditions for Merritt Lake and Lost Lake indicate a mixed bag of accessibility and trail challenges. The road to the Merritt Lake trailhead is consistently described as rough and recommended for high clearance vehicles, though some reports suggest it is passable with careful maneuvering in lower clearance vehicles as of September 30 and September 28. The trail to Merritt Lake itself is generally reported as being in good condition, with recent trail work clearing blowdowns and brush as of September 22 and September 28. However, the trail to Lost Lake presents more significant obstacles, including numerous large downed trees and a steep, messy scramble down a gully, requiring caution and potentially assistance for dogs as noted on September 6. Fall colors were observed and appreciated as of October 22 and September 28. No bugs were reported in any of the recent trip reports.
Generated from 16 trip reports. Trails change faster than reports do, so check anything you’d turn around for.
What hikers ask about Merritt Lake and Lost Lake
Generated from the most recent trip reports, newest 2 weeks ago. Check anything you’d turn around for.
The road is generally described as rough and recommended for high clearance vehicles. However, one report from September 30 indicates it might be doable in a lower clearance vehicle with careful maneuvering, though not recommended. Another report from September 28 also noted the road was rough but passable.
The trail to Merritt Lake is reported to be in good to excellent condition. Recent trail work has cleared blowdowns and cut back brush, making for a clear path to the lake as of September 22. One report from September 28 mentioned that many large trees were freshly cut and just off the trail, indicating recent maintenance.
The trail to Lost Lake involves significant obstacles. After Merritt Lake, there are numerous large downed trees and snags to navigate. The final approach to Lost Lake requires descending a steep gully with loose rocks and downed trees, described as a messy scramble as of September 6.
Yes, there appears to be ample parking at the Merritt Lake trailhead. One report from September 30 states there is room for approximately 10 vehicles. Another report from October 22 saw only one other car parked before a rougher section of the road, and a forest service pickup at the trailhead.
More in Central Cascades
Tumwater Pipeline Trail
2 weeks ago
Vibrant fall colors dominate the start
2 this month · 25 reports
White River
3 weeks ago
Trail crew cleared logs, less brush now
2 this month · 24 reports
Mount McCausland
1 month ago
Fall colors are outstanding and road ruts are terrifying
1 this month · 43 reports
Eightmile Lake
2 weeks ago
Trail opens up for views after initial ascent
1 this month · 26 reports
Alpine Lookout
3 weeks ago
Rocky path, incredible views
1 this month · 20 reports
Trail notes generated from recent reports. Conditions change fast.
Sources
Recent2 weeks ago
Central Cascades > Stevens Pass - East
Perfect day for a Fall hike, it was about 60 degrees and sunny. I noticed Apple maps will have you pass the turnoff for the trailhead, but there is a sign marking Merritt Lake so it's easy to find th...
Recent3 weeks ago
Central Cascades > Stevens Pass - East
The trail to Merritt Lake is in excellent shape...well maintained. Many thanks to all who clearly have put in the effort! This is a great hike for this time of year. It was 30 degrees when we hit t...
Older1 month ago
Central Cascades > Stevens Pass - East
A 1.6-mile stretch of Forest Service road leads to Merritt Lake trailhead. I drove it in my Civic coupe. I wouldn’t recommend it, but it is doable. There are only two spots that require careful maneuv...
Older1 month ago
Central Cascades > Stevens Pass - East
This was a perfect day for a hike. 3 miles to the lake was just the right distance for me. It was a clear, sunny day and autumn was in its glory. I saw no one on the trail in and only 1 couple while...
Older1 month ago
Central Cascades > Stevens Pass - East
The Trail Crew cleared the trail of fallen trees to Merritt Lake and cut back protruding brush in the bottom section. Clear path to the lake!
Older2 months ago
Central Cascades > Stevens Pass - East
Big ups to the Forest Service crew hard at work today clearing out this trail. On our way up, we clambered through nest after nest of blowdowns. On the way back down, we were delighted to discover tha...
Older2 months ago
Central Cascades > Stevens Pass - East
After a few of our other ideas got cancelled by mediocre weather and road closures, I took myself, 5 friends, and one dog, for a quick overnight backpack to Lost Lake. On the plus side, we found some ...
Older3 months ago
Central Cascades > Stevens Pass - East
After about 2 miles and 1500’ of elevation gain the trail flattens out and comes to an area where there’s a seemingly infinite number of downed trees. After about 10 minutes of trying to navigate thro...
Older4 months ago
Central Cascades > Stevens Pass - East
The gravel road from US 2 to the parking lot has potholes and rocks. I would not attempt it with a low clearance vehicle.We originally planned to go to Lost Lake but the trail to Merritt Lake had so m...
Older5 months ago
Central Cascades > Stevens Pass - East
This is a gem that could use some WTA crosscut saw love! It's a beautiful lake with a pit toilet, a trail that continues to the ridge above, a big camping area with lots of places to explore, and good...