What is the condition of the road to the Mildred Lakes trailhead?

The road to the Mildred Lakes trailhead is suitable for all vehicles, with one report from [August 16](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-08-17.155525185918) noting that potholes are easy to avoid. Another report from August 15 described the road as rough but passable.

Are there significant obstacles on the trail?

Yes, there are numerous obstacles reported on the trail. These include trees down across the path, muddy or wet sections, and areas that are overgrown. Some reports mention difficult stream crossings and challenging root ladders, particularly in the upper sections of the trail.

How difficult is navigation on the trail to Mildred Lakes?

Navigation can be challenging on the Mildred Lakes trail, especially in sections beyond the first mile. Reports frequently mention that the trail is not well-maintained, can be easy to lose, and has unreliable flagging. Carrying a GPS device or a map is highly recommended, with several hikers using apps like GAIA or onX to stay on track.

What are the conditions like at the Mildred Lakes themselves?

The lakes are generally reported as beautiful and snow-free. While some older reports mentioned bugs being an annoyance, more recent reports from [August](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-08-20.184353568983) and [September](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-09-08.085647347451) indicate that bugs have not been a significant issue. There have been observations of trout in the lakes.

Mildred Lakes

Olympic Peninsula

updated 2 weeks ago

The trail to Mildred Lakes is notoriously challenging, characterized by steep, sustained climbs and sections that are difficult to follow. While the first mile is generally well-maintained, hikers should be prepared for significant elevation gain, root ladders, and potential route-finding issues, especially after the burned areas. There are numerous reports of trees down across the trail and overgrown sections, requiring careful navigation, ideally with a GPS device. Bugs have not been a significant issue in recent reports, and the lakes themselves are generally snow-free and beautiful, offering rewarding views. Parking can be competitive, with reports noting overflowing lots on weekends.

Generated from 17 trip reports. Trails change faster than reports do, so check anything you’d turn around for.

What hikers ask about Mildred Lakes

Generated from the most recent trip reports, newest 2 weeks ago. Check anything you’d turn around for.

The road to the Mildred Lakes trailhead is suitable for all vehicles, with one report from August 16 noting that potholes are easy to avoid. Another report from August 15 described the road as rough but passable.